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Amphoteric surfactant

HYDROXYSULTAINES

CAS -
80

Safety score · 0–100

Good

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

A family of mild amphoteric cleansers used in shampoos and body washes to soften the action of harsher surfactants. The class has been reviewed by CIR and is generally accepted as safe in rinse-off products.

Function

CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - FOAM BOOSTING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

Skin benefits

  • Mild amphoteric surfactants such as cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine
  • Boost foam, viscosity, and mildness in cleansers and shampoos
  • Reduce irritation potential of stronger anionic surfactants
  • CIR Expert Panel considers alkyl sultaines safe when formulated to be non-irritating

Known concerns

  • Possible DMAPA contaminant can act as a contact sensitizer
  • Some individuals report scalp irritation with frequent use
  • Quality control around residual impurities is important

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Related amphoteric surfactants

80
LAURAMIDOPROPYL HYDROXYSULTAINE
Amphoteric surfactant
 80
OLEYL BETAINE
Amphoteric surfactant
 82
DISODIUM CAPROAMPHODIPROPIONATE
Amphoteric surfactant
 78
DISODIUM STEAROAMPHODIACETATE
Amphoteric surfactant
 75
OLIVAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE
Amphoteric surfactant
 86
BEHENAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE
Amphoteric surfactant
 74
CETYL/LAURYL/MYRISTYL HYDROXYSULTAINE
Amphoteric surfactant
 74
CUPUASSUAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE
Amphoteric surfactant

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.