Cocamidopropyl Betaine
A gentle amphoteric cleanser from coconut oil that adds creamy foam and softens harsher surfactants. One of the most common ingredients in sulfate-free shampoos and co-washes.
About Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) is an amphoteric surfactant, which means its molecule carries both a positive and a negative charge. It is made from coconut fatty acids and is one of the most widely used secondary cleansers in shampoos, co-washes and body washes.
On its own CAPB cleans gently and produces a soft, creamy lather. In practice it is usually blended with other surfactants: it makes strong cleansers milder, thickens the formula and improves foam. That is why it shows up near the top of so many sulfate-free shampoos for curly and coily hair. It is approved for the Curly Girl Method.
Because it is mild, CAPB is a good fit for frequent washers, people with relaxed or color-treated hair, and anyone whose ends feel dry after shampooing. It may not remove heavy build-up from waxes, butters or non-soluble silicones in one wash, so people who use those may still want an occasional clarifying shampoo.
A small number of people develop contact allergy to products containing CAPB. Research has linked many of these reactions to manufacturing impurities rather than the betaine itself, and modern grades are purified to reduce them. If your scalp itches or reddens after a new shampoo, stop using it and check whether CAPB is a common factor.
How our checker rates it
| Mode | Rating | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Curly Girl | Good | Gentle cleanser — CG-friendly. |
| Relaxed hair | OK | No concerns for this mode. |
| Low porosity | OK | No concerns for this mode. |
| Protein-sensitive | OK | No concerns for this mode. |
Ratings assume it is listed near the top of the label. After the first preservative or fragrance (likely 1% or less) most cautions soften.
What gentle cleanser ingredients do
Milder surfactants (often from coconut or sugar) that clean with less stripping. Common in sulfate-free shampoos and co-washes.
Also listed as
- capb
- cocamidopropylbetaine
- cocoamidopropyl betaine
Similar ingredients
Sources
Last data update:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR). Ingredient safety assessments. Safety assessments for cosmetic ingredients cited on ingredient pages.
- Robbins CR. Chemical and Physical Behavior of Human Hair. 5th ed. Springer; 2012. Reference text on hair structure, surfactants, conditioning agents, protein, heat and chemical treatments.
How we research and update pages: editorial policy. Spotted an error? Tell us.