Lauryl Betaine
Amphoteric co-surfactant that softens the action of primary anionic surfactants and stabilizes foam. On its own it cleanses weakly and works paired with other surfactants. Reduces the harshness of the cleansing base. No standalone effects, pregnancy-safe.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Oily, Combination, Dry, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Lauryl Betaine is an amphoteric surfactant. The molecule carries both a positive and a negative charge, so it behaves differently depending on pH. INCI: Lauryl Betaine. A close relative of cocamidopropyl betaine, but without the amide link or coconut feedstock. In a formula it acts as a co-surfactant. It is rarely the main cleansing agent: its job is to soften aggressive anionic surfactants, thicken the product, and stabilize foam. Paired with lauryl sulfates and sulfosuccinates it markedly lowers the harshness of the cleansing base. It appears in face washes, shampoos, foams, and baby care. Pregnancy safety. The product rinses off, systemic absorption is negligible, and there are no teratogenicity data of concern. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Tolerance. Pure Lauryl Betaine has a low irritation and allergen potential. Its relative cocamidopropyl betaine has reported contact allergy cases, but these are linked to manufacturing impurities (amidoamine, dimethylaminopropylamine) rather than the betaine group itself; Lauryl Betaine lacks those impurities. The ingredient has no standalone cosmetic effects. It is a functional softener of the cleansing base.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lauryl Betaine safe during pregnancy?
Lauryl Betaine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Lauryl Betaine for?
Lauryl Betaine suits: normal, oily, combination, dry, sensitive.
What is Lauryl Betaine and what does it do in cosmetics?
Amphoteric co-surfactant that softens the action of primary anionic surfactants and stabilizes foam.
What's the INCI name for Lauryl Betaine?
The INCI name is Lauryl Betaine. It may also appear as: Dodecyl Betaine.
See Lauryl Betaine in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
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