Ingredient

Coco-Betaine

Coco betaine Cocobetaine

What it is

An amphoteric coconut-derived surfactant of the betaine family, used to boost foam and soften the feel of cleansing formulas.

How it works

Its zwitterionic head group lowers the irritation of accompanying anionic surfactants, but betaine-family surfactants have documented allergic contact dermatitis cases, often linked to synthesis impurities.

What it does

Surfactant Cleansing Viscosity controlling

Concerns to know

Contact allergen

Can act as a skin sensitiser for a minority of people; patch test if your skin is reactive.
Potential irritant

May cause irritation for sensitive skin, particularly at higher concentrations.

Evidence at a glance

Worth knowing

Reflects its most significant known concern.

Why this rating

Potential irritant

Coco-betaine is a coconut-based amphoteric surfactant generally milder than sulfates; however, as a cleansing surfactant it can cause mild irritation or tightness in high-concentration use on compromised skin, and individuals with coconut-allergy may react.
Contact allergen

The ACDS has documented contact sensitization to betaine surfactants (cocamidopropyl betaine and relatives), so a yellow caution is the honest floor despite overall good tolerance in most users.