CAPB

INCI: Cocamidopropyl Betaine

What is it?

An amphoteric, coconut-derived surfactant widely used as a foam booster and mild cleansing agent in shampoos, body washes and facial cleansers.

What does it do?

According to PubMed, a 2026 15-year Thai market survey found cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) was the most prevalent surfactant in personal-care cleansers (43.2% of products), and while its patch-test positivity rate among dermatitis patients has declined over time despite rising market use, it remains among the surfactants with the highest patch-test positivity rates recorded (DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/17103568261484376). A 2022 case report identified an impurity formed during CAPB's manufacturing process (lauramidopropyl dimethylamine) as the likely cause of a patient's allergic contact dermatitis from CAPB-containing shampoo and body cleanser, rather than CAPB itself (DOI: https://doi.org/10.15036/arerugi.71.1136).

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Important disclaimer

This page provides general skincare information and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ingredient interactions and evidence summaries reflect published, cited sources — not a personal assessment of your skin. For medical skin conditions, rashes, pregnancy/lactation questions or persistent concerns, please consult a licensed dermatologist or HPCSA-registered practitioner.