Lauryl Betaine

Lauryl betaine is an amphoteric (zwitterionic) surfactant featuring a lauryl C12 chain and a betaine headgroup that changes charge behavior with pH. Cleansers and shampoos use it to boost foam volume and stability, increase mildness, and improve conditioning.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A gentle surfactant that boosts foam and softens harsher cleansers.
Category
Cleansing
Type
Surfactant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Improves foam richness and stability while moderating the sting of harsh anionics in blended systems. Supports frequent washing without leaving skin overly tight when well formulated.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Found in daily shampoos, facial cleansers, hand soaps, and baby washes for balanced, mild cleansing; also used in micellar waters and bubble baths to improve foam quality.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Typically mild, though as a surfactant it may sting eyes or irritate at higher levels or with poor rinsing. No specific regulatory restrictions widely noted.

Is Lauryl Betaine a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good because it's widely used to improve mildness and foam, with relatively low irritation in rinse-off systems, backed by extensive formulary practice. It's a dependable functional surfactant rather than a standout one.

Products with Lauryl Betaine

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