Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)
كوكاميدوبروبيل بيتايين
Surfactant · INCI: Cocamidopropyl Betaine · CAS: 61789-40-0
A mild coconut surfactant - but a known contact allergen for some.
Why this verdict
Permitted but with a real irritation/sensitisation/impurity caveat → caution.
What It Is
A coconut-derived mild co-surfactant.
A gentle, foam-boosting surfactant used to soften harsher ones - generally mild, BUT it's a recognized contact allergen (named Allergen of the Year in 2004). The sensitization is usually traced to manufacturing impurities (amidoamine/DMAPA) rather than the molecule itself. Fine for most; relevant if you're prone to reactions.
Evidence & Status
IARC Carcinogen Group
Not classified
EU Status
Not regulated under Reg (EC) 1223/2009 - general cleansing use; CIR-reviewed.
US · FDA Status
Surfactant; CIR-reviewed
Cosmetic Safety
EU concentration limit
Not restricted under EU Cosmetics Regulation (general cleansing use).
Function
surfactant / cleansing agent
Halal Status: Halal
Often coconut/palm-derived; halal - confirm no animal-derived fatty acids if strict.
Worth Knowing
Also Known As
CAPB
Primary Source
Evidence, not medical advice. You decide.
More In This Category
Get ORIA when it launches
Join the waitlist - we'll email you the moment ORIA lands. Then scan any product and get a clear verdict on every ingredient, in seconds.
Coming soon to iOS and Android