Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine is a plant-derived amidoamine used as a cationic conditioning agent in hair care. When neutralized with acids (such as citric or lactic acid), it becomes a highly effective conditioning quat. It is valued for its excellent detangling, softening, and antistatic properties with low build-up. This ingredient is commonly found in conditioners, hair masks, leave-in treatments, and 2-in-1 shampoo-conditioner formulas, especially in natural and sulfate-free lines.
Products with COCAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE
MultiSal™ Skin Repair
by Salvona Technologies
MultiSal™ Salicylic Acid 30
by Salvona Technologies
- Sustainable option
SalSphere® Healthy Scalp
by Salvona Technologies
What is COCAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE used for?
- Hair conditioning: Provides superior wet and dry combability, softness, and smoothness. Frequently used in conditioners and masks for manageable hair.
- Antistatic agent: Reduces static electricity and flyaways. Ideal for leave-in conditioners and products for frizzy or dry hair.
- Emulsifying: Acts as a co-emulsifier in hair care emulsions when neutralized. Common in creamy conditioners.
Origin
Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine is produced by reacting coconut fatty acids (or their methyl esters) with dimethylaminopropylamine. The coconut oil provides the fatty acid chain, making it a renewable, plant-derived conditioning agent. It is typically supplied as a clear to pale yellow liquid or paste.
What does COCAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE do in a formulation?
Safety Profile
Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine is considered safe for cosmetic use when properly neutralized and formulated to be non-irritating. It has a moderate hazard rating from EWG (typically 3) due to potential irritation before neutralization. It is milder than many traditional quats and is well-tolerated in rinse-off hair products.
COCAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE alternatives
COCAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | >200°C |
| Melting Point | Low |
| pH | Alkaline |
| Solubility | Dispersible in water when neutralized; soluble in oils |
| Viscosity | Medium to high |
