Cetyl Betaine
INCI: Surfactant
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Also known as: Surfactant, Lauryl Betaine, Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Type of salt formed with a compound with acidic + basic properties
EWG Safety Score
What Is Cetyl Betaine?
Cetyl betaine is an inner salt, a type of salt formed within a compound having both acidic and basic (alkaline) properties. Specifically, it is a surface-active agent, or surfactant, that has many uses in skin care and hair care products. As a mild cleansing agent, it helps trap dirt to make it easier to rinse away. It also serves as an anti-static agent, skin and hair conditioning ingredient, and helps boost and maintain foam production in cleansers.\n\nCetyl betaine is used in concentrations between 0.36-7.4% in cosmetics, mostly in rinse-off formulas. It has been ruled safe in its current usage by the independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel. Note that this ingredient is often combined with other surfactants to create a more thorough yet still gentle cleansing experience.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, July 2018, pages 880-890 Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, 2018
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International Journal of Toxicology, May/June 2018, pages 28S-46S International Journal of Toxicology, 2018
From the Clinic
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