Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB): A Gentle Giant in Personal Care
Discover the mild, versatile, and effective properties of this essential cosmetic ingredient.
Get a Quote & SampleThe Core Value of Cocamidopropyl Betaine

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)
Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB) is a highly regarded amphoteric surfactant renowned for its exceptional mildness and versatility in cosmetic and personal care formulations. Its unique zwitterionic nature allows it to act as both an anionic and cationic surfactant depending on pH, contributing to its broad compatibility and functionality.
- As a mild amphoteric surfactant, CAPB is ideal for creating gentle cleanser formulations, making it a staple in products for sensitive skin and baby care.
- Its excellent foaming properties enhance the user experience, providing a rich lather that contributes to effective cleansing and a pleasant feel.
- CAPB acts as a co-surfactant, improving the viscosity and stability of formulations when used with other common surfactants like sulfates, reducing their potential for irritation.
- The conditioning and moisturizing benefits of CAPB leave skin and hair feeling soft and smooth after rinsing, contributing to overall product appeal.
Key Advantages of Using CAPB
Enhanced Mildness and Reduced Irritation
Leveraging CAPB as a gentle cleanser ingredient significantly lowers the potential for skin irritation, especially when formulated with harsher surfactants, making it a preferred choice for sensitive skin products.
Superior Foam Quality and Stability
The excellent foaming properties of CAPB are crucial for consumer perception, providing a luxurious and effective cleansing experience that consumers expect from their personal care items.
Viscosity and Stability Enhancement
As a viscosity builder in cosmetics, CAPB contributes to the desired texture and thickness of products, improving pourability and overall product aesthetics while stabilizing the formulation.
Key Applications for Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Shampoos and Conditioners
Its conditioning and thickening abilities make it a prime choice for enhancing the performance and feel of hair care products, showcasing its hair conditioning properties.
Facial Cleansers and Body Washes
The mildness of CAPB ensures effective yet gentle cleansing, making it ideal for facial cleansers and body washes, promoting a healthy skin barrier through its skin conditioning agent function.
Baby Care Products
As a mild amphoteric surfactant, CAPB is exceptionally suited for baby shampoos and washes, providing a safe and gentle cleansing experience for delicate skin.
Household Cleaners
Beyond personal care, CAPB's surfactant properties make it effective in household cleaners, contributing to their foaming and cleaning power, embodying its role as a biodegradable surfactant.