Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)

$7.95

Mild amphoteric surfactant

Water soluble

Foam booster

Reduces harshness

Suitable for cleansers & shampoos

Sold by weight (g or Kg) for formulation accuracy. Reference only: 250 g ≈ 235–245 mL (at 20°C).

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)

$7.95

INGREDIENT OVERVIEW

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)

Cocamidopropyl betaine is a mild amphoteric surfactant used in cosmetic formulations to create balanced, gentle cleansing systems.

It is widely used in body washes, facial cleansers, and shampoos where both cleansing performance and skin tolerance are important. It is rarely used alone, and instead functions as part of a broader surfactant system to improve mildness, foam quality, and overall formulation balance.

In formulation, cocamidopropyl betaine helps reduce the harshness of primary surfactants while enhancing foam stability and improving the overall sensory profile of the cleanser.

Our grade is supplied as a cosmetic-grade liquid with controlled active content and low impurity profile, supporting consistent formulation performance.

View in Ingredient Dictionary

QUALITY & SOURCING

High active content (35.5%) for reliable cleansing performance
Very low free amine (0.01%) for cleaner formulation behaviour
Low glycolic acid content (0.01%)
Balanced pH (5.8) for compatibility across mild cleanser systems

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

Ingredient: Cocamidopropyl Betaine
INCI: Cocamidopropyl Betaine
CAS: 61789-40-0
Solubility: Water soluble
Typical use level:
Cocamidopropyl betaine is typically used at 3–15% depending on formulation type and desired
mildness.
- Facial cleansers: 3–8%
- Body wash: 5–12%
- Shampoo: 5–12%
Used at lower levels to soften stronger surfactant systems and at higher levels where improved foam quality and mildness are desired.
Starter: 5-10% for most cosmetic formulations

FORMULATION NOTES

Processing notes

Add to the water or surfactant phase with gentle mixing until uniform. Avoid excessive aeration.

Compatibility notes

Compatible with most surfactants, including amphoteric and non-ionic systems. Works well
in mild cleanser formulations and alongside humectants and conditioning additives.

pH notes

Stable across typical cosmetic pH ranges (approx. pH 5–7).

Formulation examples

Facial cleanser

Cocamidopropyl Betaine: 3–6%
Coco-Glucoside: 3–6%
Humectants as required

Creates a balanced, mild cleansing system with improved foam quality.

Body wash

Cocamidopropyl Betaine: 5–10%
Primary surfactant system
Refatting agent: 2–4%

Improves mildness and post-wash feel.

Shampoo

Cocamidopropyl Betaine: 5–10%
Surfactant system
Conditioning additives

Supports gentle cleansing with improved tolerance and foam stability.

Troubleshooting

Harsh cleanser → increase CAPB or reduce stronger surfactants
Poor foam texture → adjust surfactant ratio
Thin system → adjust salt or thickener system
Heavy feel → reduce conditioning additives

COMPARISON & ALTERNATIVES

Primary mild cleanser: coco-glucoside
Stronger cleansing systems: anionic surfactants
Complementary: refatting agents for improved mildness and sensory feel

SENSORY PROFILE

Cocamidopropyl betaine contributes a mild, soft cleansing feel with stable, creamy foam. It helps reduce harshness and improves overall skin comfort. Sensory outcome is formulation-dependent; bench testing is recommended.

STORAGE & HANDLING

Store in a cool, dry place, protected from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Keep container tightly sealed when not in use.
Shelf life: 2 years when properly stored

PRODUCT SAFETY

Suitable for cosmetic use within recommended levels.
Use in accordance with standard formulation practices.
Keep out of reach of children.
Avoid inhalation of dust. Use appropriate PPE during handling and formulation.
Refer to Safety Data Sheet (SDS) contained within documents tab.

DOCUMENTATION

Cosmetic grade
Active matter: 35.5%
pH: 5.8
Free amine: 0.01%
Sodium chloride: 5.2%
COA and SDS available

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)

Often paired with this ingredient

Formulate with Confidence

Understanding Surfactants in Cosmetic Formulation

Join the JNA Community