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COCAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE PROPIONATE.

Valuable CAS 68425-43-4 / ANTISTATIC, HAIR CONDITIONING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

A coconut-derived cationic surfactant and conditioning agent that enhances the tactile profile of both skin and hair. It serves as a dual-purpose emulsifier and foam stabilizer, frequently utilized to provide a silky, lubricated feel in rinse-off formulations.

Antistatic Emulsifying Hair Conditioning Surfactant Foam Booster Antimicrobial

Science

In aqueous solutions, particularly at mildly acidic pH, the tertiary amines in this molecule undergo protonation to form ammonium cations. These cations adhere to the negatively charged surfaces of the skin and hair, creating a microscopic film that reduces static electricity, minimizes transepidermal friction, and imparts a smooth finish while assisting in the emulsification of oils and water.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–6.5%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 LLNA assessments on related fatty acid amidopropyl dimethylamines indicate that sensitization potential is concentration-dependent, highlighting the necessity for high-purity raw materials.
  2. 02 Safety evaluations confirm that concentrations up to 6.5% are common in cleansing products, though impurity levels of DMAPA must be strictly controlled to prevent adverse skin reactions.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.5%
Red flag below
0.1%

As a functional surfactant and conditioning agent, it is typically included at levels above 0.5% to achieve perceptible texture modification. Percentages below 0.1% are generally insufficient for performance and may indicate 'label claim' usage.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 6 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable within a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. In more acidic environments, it transitions into an ammonium salt. Formulators must avoid combining this ingredient with nitrosating agents to prevent the formation of nitrosamines.

Synergies

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine
  • Glycerin
  • Non-ionic surfactants

Conflicts

  • Nitrosating agents
  • Strongly anionic thickeners (potential for complexation)

Safety

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

Safe for cosmetic use provided the formulation is non-sensitizing. The primary safety concern involves the impurity 3,3-dimethylaminopropylamine (DMAPA), which must be kept to a minimum to avoid contact dermatitis.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Valuable

An effective multi-functional conditioner and surfactant that improves product texture, provided it is sourced for high purity to mitigate sensitization risks.


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