Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientSurfactantCocamidopropyl Dimethylamine
INCI: Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine
Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine is a cationic surfactant derived from coconut oil, chemically classified as a fatty acid amidoamine. It functions as a surfactant, emulsifier, antistatic agent, and hair conditioning agent, with a positively charged head group that gives it good foaming properties and affinity for negatively charged surfaces like skin and hair. It is commonly used in cleansing formulations and is also used as a solubiliser to improve the water solubility and stability of actives such as salicylic acid in non-cleansing products.
Category
Surfactant
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, oily, acne-prone, normal, combination
What does this do in a formula?
cleansing, foaming, emulsifying, antistatic, hair conditioning, solubilising actives (e.g. salicylic acid)
Is Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine safe? Key considerations
Can Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine cause irritation?
Low RiskGenerally well tolerated at typical cosmetic use concentrations in rinse-off cleansing formulations. As a cationic surfactant it is milder than anionic surfactants such as SLS. No EU CosIng Annex II (banned) or Annex III (restricted) status identified. Patch testing is advisable for individuals with known surfactant sensitivities.
Does Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskCocamidopropyl Dimethylamine is not a photosensitising ingredient. No sun protection precautions are associated with its use.
Is Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine safe during pregnancy?
MANUAL REVIEW: No specific pregnancy safety data found in available sources. As a surfactant used primarily in rinse-off products at low concentrations, systemic absorption is expected to be minimal, but formal assessment is lacking.No dedicated pregnancy safety assessment was identified in EWG, MotherToBaby, or CIR databases for this specific ingredient. Given its rinse-off use pattern and low dermal absorption profile typical of surfactants, risk is likely low — but users should consult a healthcare provider if concerned.
How does Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine work?
Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine is a cationic surfactant derived from coconut oil, chemically classified as a fatty acid amidoamine. It functions as a surfactant, emulsifier, antistatic agent, and hair conditioning agent, with a positively charged head group that gives it good foaming properties and affinity for negatively charged surfaces like skin and hair. It is commonly used in cleansing formulations and is also used as a solubiliser to improve the water solubility and stability of actives such as salicylic acid in non-cleansing products.
Individuals with known sensitivity to coconut-derived surfactants should review the considerations above before use.
Which products contain Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine?
Shop products that contain Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine
