Cetyl Betaine
AKA “Palmityldimethylbetaine, N-(carboxymethyl)-N, inner salt, (Carboxylatomethyl)hexadecyldimethylammonium, EINECS 211-748-4, BRN 3676787, AMPHOSOL CDB, MACKAM CET
Synthetic
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Ingredient Facts
Cetyl betaine
AKA: Palmityldimethylbetaine, N-(carboxymethyl)-N, Inner salt, (Carboxylatomethyl)hexadecyldimethylammonium, EINECS 211-748-4, BRN 3676787, AMPHOSOL CDB, MACKAM CET
Synthetic · Antistatic | Cleansing | Hair Conditioning | Skin Conditioning | Surfactant - Cleansing | Surfactant - Foam Boosting | Viscosity Controlling · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Skin Conditioner
Hair Care
Amino Acid
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
A gentle cleanser and conditioner that helps remove dirt while softening hair and skin. It also reduces frizz and creates a luxurious lather in shampoos and body washes.
Formula
C20H41NO2
Mol. Weight
327.50
CAS #
693-33-4
Form
Liquid
Plant-Derived
Synthetic. Derived from coconut or palm-based fatty alcohols and dimethylaminopropionic acid, both petroleum or plant-derived sources. Synthesized through condensation reaction between the fatty alcohol and the amino acid derivative under controlled conditions.
Function
Antistatic | Cleansing | Hair Conditioning | Skin Conditioning | Surfactant - Cleansing | Surfactant - Foam Boosting | Viscosity Controlling
Benefits
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic amphoteric surfactant created in the mid-20th century as part of the development of gentler cleansing agents. Designed to replace harsher soap-based ingredients in shampoos and body washes.
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Target
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy Safe
Yes
EWG Score1
CIR Safety Findings
ewg-1, medical-approval, pregnancy-nursing-safe, all-shades-safe, Not a Sensitizer
Concentration Guide
Industry Max
Industry typically uses up to 8.0% in leave-on products (1 products reported). Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 650).
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR