INCI name

Cocamidopropyl Betaine

Also listed as: CAPB, a coconut-derived mild surfactant

Cocamidopropyl betaine is a mild, amphoteric surfactant usually made from coconut fatty acids. It is added to shampoos and body washes to thicken the product, to cut the harshness of stronger sulfates, and to help foam. It is one of the more common "secondary" surfactants in everyday wash-off products.

Impurities from older manufacturing, including amidoamine and 3-dimethylaminopropylamine (DMAPA), have been linked to contact allergy in some people. Quality of the raw material matters, and that is not visible on the label.

Where it turns up

Shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers and hand soaps.

Sensitivities

A recognised contact allergen for a minority of users, particularly on damaged or frequently washed skin (for example, hairdressers' hands).

Vegan or animal-derived

Usually coconut-derived and vegan. The INCI name starts with coca- because of coconut, not cocoa.

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