Cocamidopropyl Betainamide Mea Chloride
INCI: COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINAMIDE MEA CHLORIDE
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Also known as: Cocamidopropyl Betainamide Mea Chloride
A coconut-derived surfactant that cleanses and stabilises foam in formulations
Best For Skin Types
All, Sensitive
Addresses
Effective Concentrations
2-5%
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Cocamidopropyl Betainamide Mea Chloride?
Cocamidopropyl Betainamide Mea Chloride is a surfactant—a cleansing agent—derived from coconut oil. It belongs to a class of ingredients called betaines, which have both water-loving and oil-loving properties. This dual nature allows it to lift dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin whilst keeping formulations stable.
In skincare products, it typically serves as a secondary cleanser or foam booster rather than the primary cleansing agent. It's gentler than many traditional surfactants and is often chosen for formulations designed for regular use.
How It Works
Surfactants work by surrounding oil and dirt particles with one end of their molecule whilst their other end faces water. This allows dirt to be rinsed away with water. Cocamidopropyl Betainamide Mea Chloride achieves this action whilst maintaining a neutral to near-neutral charge, which typically means less irritation to the skin compared to more heavily charged surfactants.
It also stabilises the air bubbles in foam, which is why it's used in cleansers where consumers expect a foaming action.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published clinical data specific to this ingredient in skincare is limited. However, as a betaine surfactant, it shares the mild, non-irritating profile characteristic of this chemical class. Betaines are often chosen by formulators for sensitive skin or products intended for daily use because they disrupt the skin barrier less readily than stronger surfactants.
Safety and tolerance have been established through decades of use in personal care products, though individual patch testing is always recommended for those with reactive skin.
How to Use
This ingredient is used in rinse-off products such as facial cleansers and body washes, where it typically appears mid-way down the ingredient list. There is no need to adjust usage based on the presence of this ingredient alone; follow the instructions for the specific product. It can be used daily as part of a cleansing routine, morning and evening, or as directed by the product label.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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