Information on Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Sulfate-Free Foaming Base

Can they be used as the primary cleansing agent?

• Cocamidopropyl Betaine: Yes, it can be used as a primary detergent in a formula, although it is often used as a secondary surfactant (co-surfactant) to boost foam and mildness when combined with other surfactants.
• Sulfate-Free Foaming Base: Yes, this product is specifically designed to be used as a base for gentle cleansing products like shampoo. It functions as the primary cleansing agent in a formulation.

Required quantity per liter of water?

The usage rate for these ingredients is typically given as a percentage of the total formula weight or volume, not just per liter of water. To make approximately 1 liter (which is roughly 1000 grams) of finished shampoo:

• Cocamidopropyl Betaine: If used as the main detergent, the recommended usage rate for shampoo is approximately 15-30%. For a 1000g batch, this would be about 150-300 grams of Cocamidopropyl Betaine.
• Sulfate-Free Foaming Base: The recommended usage rate for shampoo is 25-35%. For a 1000g batch, this would be about 250-350 grams of Sulfate-Free Foaming Base.

Remember that a complete shampoo formula will also require other ingredients like water, thickeners, preservatives, and potentially conditioning agents or other additives. You would calculate the amount of the base or surfactant based on the desired total weight of your final product.

Which one is milder?

Both Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Sulfate-Free Foaming Base are considered gentle surfactants suitable for sensitive skin and scalp.

• Cocamidopropyl Betaine is described as a mild amphoteric surfactant.
• Sulfate-Free Foaming Base is specifically developed as a gentle base free from sulfates, which are common irritants for sensitive scalps. It is stated to not cause irritation to the scalp.

Given your history of reacting to commercial shampoos and having a sensitive scalp, the Sulfate-Free Foaming Base is likely the better choice for you. It is specifically formulated to be very gentle and is free from sulfates, which aligns well with the needs of easily irritated skin. It also provides a simpler starting point as it is a complete base.

In summary, for a sensitive scalp and ease of formulation, the Sulfate-Free Foaming Base is recommended. You would use it at a rate of 25-35% of your total shampoo formula.