Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine is a mild, plant-derived surfactant commonly used in UK shampoos, facial cleansers and shower gels. It creates a rich, creamy lather while being gentler on skin and eyes than many traditional foaming agents. Shoppers often see it listed as a secondary cleanser that helps products feel luxurious without stripping.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetic formulations Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine acts as a secondary surfactant and foam booster. It works by reducing surface tension so oils and dirt can be easily rinsed away, while its amphoteric nature allows it to work well alongside both anionic and cationic ingredients. It also functions as a conditioning agent and viscosity builder, giving shower gels and shampoos a silky, stable texture that feels pleasant on skin and hair.
Key benefits
- Creates rich, stable foam
- Gentle cleansing with low irritation potential
- Improves product texture and viscosity
- Enhances conditioning feel on hair
- Compatible with a wide range of other surfactants
- Helps reduce eye and skin stinging in rinse-off products
Best for
sensitive skin, dry skin, normal skin, oily skin
Where it comes from
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine is derived from coconut oil. The fatty acids from the coconut are reacted to form the final amphoteric surfactant molecule.
Products with Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Not every product on UK Lips lists a full ingredient breakdown — so there may be many more formulas that contain Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine than we can show here. These are the comparisons where we’ve confirmed it in the listed ingredients.