Common Name(s): Hydroxylauryl/hydroxymyristyl betaine,hydroxy fatty betaine,hydroxymyristyl betaine
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Gently cleanses skin and hair while conditioning and reducing static.
Why It's Used: Selected for its mild amphoteric profile that combines cleansing with moisturizing properties; compatible with anionic, cationic, and nonionic surfactants.
How It Works: Zwitterionic structure (cationic quaternary n+ and anionic carboxylate coo-) enables compatibility across ph ranges; hydroxyl groups on fatty chains increase hydrophilicity and skin feel.
Typically Found In: Baby shampoos,mild facial cleansers,sensitive skin body washes,conditioning shampoos
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – surfactant
Secondary Functions: Antistatic,conditioning,foam boosting
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 1%–10%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - feedstock declaration required
Halal Status: Unverified - feedstock declaration required (plant, animal and petrochemical routes all exist)
Source Notes: Derived from hydroxylauric/hydroxymyristic fatty acids (coconut/palm origin) with betaine chemistry; semi-synthetic. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: origin-dependent: the same inci exists in plant, animal and petrochemical versions and the name does not discriminate. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low; exceptionally mild amphoteric
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low
Sensitivity Concerns: Very mild; suitable for sensitive and baby skin formulations.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1–2.
Works Well With: Anionic surfactants (sles),nonionic surfactants,cationic conditioners,humectants
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Hydroxy-functionalized betaine surfactants have enhanced substantivity to skin/hair due to additional h-bonding from hydroxyl groups on c12/c14 chains. amphoteric nature gives reduced net charge irritation.
Last Verified: 2026-03-27
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,supplier technical sheets