What is Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine? Is it safe?
You noticed Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine among the ingredients of your new shampoo. Should you be scared? The name looks pretty “chemical-y”. In this short article, we’re figuring out what Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine is and whether it’s safe for you.
What is Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine in your shampoo is a surfactant (i.e. the ingredient that actually washes your hair) as well as conditioning and thickening agent. It’s naturally derived from coconut oil.
We add Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine to our Silk’e shampoo to increase its foaming properties and help with the frizziness of your hair.
Is Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine bad for your skin and hair?
According to EWG, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine is a safe ingredient [1]. It is not expected to have a negative impact on human health. It is not toxic and doesn’t cause cancer. The only downside of Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine is that it might cause severe eye irritation upon contact with eyes. So, our advice is to just wash your hair with your eyes closed :)
Whole Foods is known to vet their brands and ingredients really well. They have over 100 banned ingredients [2]. Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine is not among them.
Is Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine better than Cocamidopropyl Betaine?
If you spotted Cocamidopropyl on a bottle of your shampoo, don’t be too excited. Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine has a sibling — Cocamidopropyl Betaine. Even though both ingredients work the similar way, Cocamidopropyl Betaine can be more irritating to your skin.
Sources
[1] EWG Report