Undecylenamidopropyl Betaine

Benefits
Hair ConditioningCleansingAntistatic

What is Undecylenamidopropyl Betaine?

Undecylenamidopropyl Betaine is an amphoteric surfactant synthesized from undecylenic acid, an unsaturated fatty acid typically sourced from castor oil, combined with amidopropyl and betaine groups to form a zwitterionic structure. This gives it a mild, pH-balanced cleansing profile suitable for shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers. In formulations, it lowers surface tension to lift dirt and oils into micelles for easy rinsing, while its conditioning properties deposit a light film on hair shafts to minimize friction and static buildup. It also boosts foam stability and creaminess, improving product texture without harshness, and aids viscosity control for better spreadability. Commonly featured in products for sensitive scalps or color-treated hair due to its gentle nature and compatibility with other surfactants.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Antistatic agent
Reduces static electricity and flyaways by improving surface conductivity, enhancing hair manageability and smoothness in conditioners and styling products.
Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Foam booster
Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Gentle cleansing that removes impurities while preserving natural moisture.

Enhances hair smoothness and reduces static for easier styling.

Boosts rich, stable foam for a luxurious wash experience.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with sensitive scalps seeking mild cleansers.
Those with known allergies to betaine surfactants.
People with dry or frizzy hair needing conditioning surfactants.
People experiencing rare contact dermatitis from similar amides.
Users preferring foam-rich shampoos and body washes.
Individuals sensitive to castor-derived ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by environmental working groups.
  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by regulatory expert panels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Undecylenamidopropyl Betaine

What makes it different from other betaines?

Derived from undecylenic acid for milder action and better conditioning than some alkyl variants.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, its amphoteric nature supports gentle use in products for sensitive scalps and skin.

Does it help with hair static?

It acts as an antistatic agent, improving hair manageability by enhancing surface conductivity.