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COCAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE.

Valuable CAS 68140-01-2 / ANTISTATIC, HAIR CONDITIONING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine is a multifunctional ingredient primarily recognized for its conditioning properties, which enhance the texture and feel of skin and hair by forming a protective film. It also acts as a cationic surfactant, efficiently aiding in the cleansing process by emulsifying oils and dirt, while contributing to robust foaming. Additionally, it stabilizes oil-water mixtures as an emulsifying agent and minimizes static charges.

Summary

Antistatic Conditioning Emulsifying Surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This compound functions by forming a thin, conditioning film on the surface of skin and hair, which contributes to a smoother tactile experience and improved cosmetic feel. As a cationic surfactant, it interacts with and suspends oil-based impurities and dirt, facilitating their removal with water and enhancing lathering. It further stabilizes immiscible oil and water components within formulations and effectively reduces electrostatic charges.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The ingredient's established roles as a conditioning agent, surfactant, and emulsifier are well-supported, with no data suggesting it is commonly included at ineffective concentrations to make unsupported claims.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 6 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine exhibits optimal stability in aqueous solutions within a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. It is soluble in acidic aqueous environments, where it forms cationic ammonium salts.

Conflicts

  • Formulations must be rigorously designed to prevent the formation of nitrosamines, a potential risk due to its secondary amide and tertiary amine groups under certain conditions.
  • Higher concentrations are associated with an increased risk of irritation or allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with heightened skin sensitivity.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
6.5%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine safe for cosmetic use, provided it is formulated to be non-sensitizing. This assessment acknowledges concerns regarding impurities such as 3,3-dimethylaminopropylamine (DMAPA), which carries sensitizing potential. Formulations must also explicitly prevent nitrosamine formation. Both the U.S. FDA and the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) monitor its use, and it is not restricted under EU cosmetic regulations. The maximum reported concentration for this ingredient in skin cleansing products is 6.5%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine is a valuable, multifunctional ingredient that enhances conditioning, cleansing, and emulsion stability, but requires precise formulation to mitigate the moderate risk of sensitization and nitrosamine formation.

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