Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine

Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine Description

Cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine is a mild cleansing agent that belongs to a category known as amphoteric surfactants. This type of surfactant has both acid and basic qualities, making it versatile across a wider pH range. It’s considered non-irritating to skin.

Although derived from a natural source (coconut oil), cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine is considered synthetic. Along with cleansing, it’s also used as a secondary surfactant to boost foaming/lathering properties, to help thicken cosmetics and to improve the stability of cleansers.

Usage levels of cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine range from 2–11.5% depending on whether it is the primary or secondary surfactant, the chemist’s desired level of cleansing, and if it’s a rinse-off or leave-on product. Leave-on products with this ingredient typically contain 2% or less.