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surfactant

Cocamidopropyl Betaine

Watch if sensitive·Strong evidence

A coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant used to boost foam and mildness in cleansers and shampoos. CIR has reviewed it as safe as used, but it is one of the more established contact-allergy triggers in personal care, usually traced to manufacturing impurities such as amidoamine and dimethylaminopropylamine (DMAPA) rather than the betaine itself. People with a history of eyelid or scalp dermatitis are more likely to react.

Worth knowing

  • Known contact sensitizer for some
  • Can irritate, especially left on

Gentler alternatives

Products with Cocamidopropyl Betaine

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.