Shea Butteramidopropyl Betaine

Shea Butteramidopropyl Betaine 1
photograph
AKA: Shea Butter Betaine
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Not Clean
OriginNative to West Africa. Derived from the nuts of the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), native to West Africa's Malvaceae family. Created by chemically modifying cold-pressed shea butter through amidopropyl betaine synthesis.
Shea Butteramidopropyl Betaine is a cosmetic ingredient used as cleansing, surfactant - cleansing, surfactant - foam boosting. Rated moderate hazard by EWG. Assessed as safe by the CIR.
Family
Malvaceae (Mallow family)
Plant Part
Nut
CAS #
-
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Tree Nut (Shea)
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Foam Boosting
Locks in moisture
Prevents moisture loss
Quells irritation
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
2 studies / 2 not sensitizing (CIR 518)
Skin Irritant in Testing (CIR report on the ingredient group)
CIR report statement covering this group of ingredients / not tested individually (CIR 518)
Concentration Guide
Leave-onNot reported
Rinse-off0.6–4%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2010 survey
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR