Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a surfactant
Cocamidopropyl betaine is an ingredient often used in cosmetics for washing, such as shampoos and body washes. Because it is a surfactant derived from coconut oil, it is often found in many shampoos that claim to be organic or natural.
Surfactants are what mix oil and water, which don't normally mix.
When added to shampoo, it can lift and remove sebum and dirt.
Cocamidopropyl betaine has a low risk of skin irritation and is considered safe for most people.
However, in some cases you need to be careful.
This article takes a closer look at cocamidopropyl betaine's safety and environmental impact.
Cocamidopropyl Betaine derived from coconut oil
Cocamidopropyl betaine is made up of two main substances.
One is the fatty acid contained in coconut oil, and the other is a synthetic compound called propylene glycol , which is the ingredient listed as "PG" in cosmetics.
Cocamidopropyl betaine, which is synthesized from these substances, mainly works to lift oil, then washes it away with water. It can also create a rich foam.
Another ingredient that has a similar function is sodium lauryl sulfate .
However, sodium lauryl sulfate is known to be highly irritating and may cause eczema and dryness.
That’s why cocamidopropyl betaine is increasingly being used as a milder option.
Related article: Why Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Causes Dry Skin
The Role of Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Cocamidopropyl betaine has some unique functions. Looking at these, it is easy to see why it is used so often in shampoos.
Float and remove oil
As a surfactant, it helps mix water and oil together, so you can wash away oil from your scalp along with the water.
Improves foaming
It foams well when it comes into contact with water, so it is used in shampoos and body soaps.
For a rich feel
It also acts as a thickener to give viscosity to liquids, and helps prevent dripping of hair conditioners, etc.
Is Cocamidopropyl Betaine Safe?
In the United States, there is an organization called EWG, whose experts verify the safety of cosmetics. Cocamidopropyl betaine has not been found to be carcinogenic or toxic .
However, it has been pointed out that if it is left on the skin for a long time, it may cause inflammation, especially in skin that has been weakened by atopic dermatitis.
Hairdressers who use shampoo and other hair care products for long periods of time every day should also be careful. Reports indicate that more than 10% of hairdressers have had positive allergic reactions to cocamidopropyl betaine.
Symptoms that appear when they don't match
Cocamidopropyl betaine is generally safe for many people to use. However, some people may experience irritation or allergic reactions. The most common symptoms are as follows:
- Skin discomfort
- Feeling of tension
- Itching and redness
- inflammation
- rash
In most cases, these symptoms will resolve on their own once you stop using the product.
However, in some cases, the condition may not improve or may worsen. In such cases, it is best to see a dermatologist.
Causes of allergies caused by cocamidopropyl betaine
Cocamidopropyl betaine was initially thought to be an allergen in its own right, and in 2004 it was even named "Allergen of the Year" by the American Contact Dermatitis Society.
However, a 2012 study revealed the real cause of the allergic reaction: it wasn't the cocamidopropyl betaine itself that caused the allergic reaction, but two impurities that were produced during the manufacturing process.
The two impurities are aminoamide (AA) and 3-dimethylaminopropylamine (DMAPA).
Several studies have shown that cocamidopropyl betaine, which does not contain these impurities, does not cause allergic reactions in most people.
By the way, highly refined cocamidopropyl betaine does not contain AA and DMAPA, but currently most cocamidopropyl betaine contains these impurities.
People with sensitive or atopic skin may want to be on the safe side and avoid shampoos containing cocamidopropyl betaine.
Related article: Safety of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil: Precautions when using and risk of impurities
Environmental impact
The EWG lists cocamidopropyl betaine as possibly toxic to aquatic organisms , however, a separate aquatic risk assessment published in 2013 found it to be safe.
That means that the facts are still unclear at this point.
Is it harmful to the environment? To what extent? It will take some time to determine this.
Is Cocamylpropyl Betaine "Natural"?
As mentioned at the beginning, cocamidopropyl betaine contains fatty acids derived from coconuts. Therefore, shampoos containing this ingredient are often labeled with words such as "natural" or "derived from natural ingredients."
However, cocamidopropyl betaine is not a 100% natural ingredient because it contains a synthetic compound called PG.
It doesn't have to be 100% natural!
However, it's not as though "just because it says it's natural" is OK!
It's important not to be misled by catchy slogans and to choose the right cosmetics that match your values.
Related article: The fact that most "natural cosmetics" contain allergenic ingredients
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"CONCIO" - A company that thoroughly researches the risks of cosmetic ingredients
CONCIO is the first additive-free skin care product in Japan to receive EWG certification, meeting new standards.
Focusing on the risk of skin irritation and allergies caused by cosmetic ingredients, we have implemented our own safety standards by not using 2,500 ingredients, including synthetic polymers and silicone oils that are poorly biodegradable.
*This does not guarantee that skin irritation or allergies will not occur in all people.
