Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)
كوكاميدوبروبيل بيتين (CAPB)
Amphoteric surfactant
The verdict
Milder, coconut-derived — but a recognised contact allergen for some.
What it is
A coconut-derived 'gentle' foam booster used in mild washes and shampoos.
Marketed as the gentle, coconut-derived surfactant — and it is milder. But it's a recognised contact allergen (it was 'Allergen of the Year' in 2004), driven by manufacturing by-products, and hairdressers show a measurably higher allergy rate. Fine for most; a known trigger for the sensitised.
Evidence & status
IARC carcinogen group
not_classified
EU status
CLP-classified (H315, H319, H400); signal word Warning.
US · FDA status
EPA/CIR-reviewed where applicable
Halal status: halal
Coconut/palm- or synthetic-derived; vegan; no animal-fat or alcohol concern (surface use).
Also known as
CAPB · coco betaine · cocamidopropyl betaine
Primary source
Evidence, not medical advice. You decide.
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