SHAMPOO WITHOUT COCAMIDOPROPYL BETAINE – a trichologist’s choice for a healthy scalp

Shampoo without Cocamidopropyl Betaine is the first choice for the care of a healthy scalp and strong hair. More and more people struggle with problems such as sensitive scalp, irritation, itching or excessive hair loss. In such cases, trichologists often recommend giving up popular, synthetic ingredients that can burden the skin and disturb its natural balance. One such ingredient is Cocamidopropyl Betaine - a washing substance widely used in drugstore shampoos.

Although Cocamidopropyl Betaine lathers well and removes impurities, in some people it can cause allergic reactions, intensify dryness, and even lead to chronic inflammation of the scalp. That is why shampoos without Cocamidopropyl Betaine , which contain mild, natural cleansing substances, are becoming increasingly popular. Thanks to them, the shampoo not only effectively cleanses the hair, but also cares for and protects the sensitive scalp.

In this article I will explain:

• why Cocamidopropyl Betaine can be problematic,
• what natural cleansing substances are used in shampoos recommended by trichologists,
• why it is worth choosing an Orientana hair product , which is safe even for sensitive scalp and effectively supports the fight against problems such as hair loss or dryness.

What is Cocamidopropyl Betaine and why is it problematic?

Cocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB) is an amphoteric surfactant obtained from coconut oil and dimethylaminopropylamine. Its main task in shampoos is to enhance foam, soften the effects of stronger detergents and give cosmetics a delicate texture. Due to its foaming properties, CAPB is commonly used in shampoos, shower gels and micellar fluids.

However, the problem occurs with sensitive and problematic skin.

Although CAPB has long been considered a mild substance, for several years dermatologists and trichologists have been drawing attention to its potential irritating and allergenic effects, especially with long-term use.

Clinical trial data:

• According to the American Contact Dermatitis Society , CAPB was included on the list of contact allergens of 2004.
• A study published in Contact Dermatitis (2004;50(2):79-80) reported that up to 10% of people with skin problems may develop symptoms of contact dermatitis after contact with CAPB.
• Irritating effects are often associated with residues of auxiliary raw materials (e.g. dimethylaminopropylamine), which may not be completely removed during the manufacturing process.

Typical side effects after using CAPB shampoo

• itching of the scalp,
• redness and irritation,
• dryness and flaking of the skin,
• exacerbation of problems such as atopic dermatitis (AD), seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff,
• hair loss caused by inflammation of the follicles.

Who should specifically avoid CAPB?

• people with sensitive scalp ,
• people with hydrolipid barrier disorders,
• trichological patients with dermatitis, atopic dermatitis and chronic dermatoses,
• people with chronic inflammatory hair loss.

Therefore, in the treatment of trichological problems , shampoos without Cocamidopropyl Betaine are increasingly recommended, based on milder, natural cleansing substances.

Shampoo without Cocamidopropyl Betaine – natural cleansing substances in practice

In response to the growing problems associated with scalp sensitivity and allergic reactions to CAPB, modern shampoos increasingly use natural cleansing substances. These are gentle, biodegradable surfactants that effectively cleanse hair without damaging the scalp's protective barrier. What's more, they are much better tolerated by people with scalp dermatoses, inflammations or excessive hair loss.

Gentle cleansing is the key to a healthy scalp

Daily hair washing requires the use of surfactants that effectively cleanse the scalp from sebum, environmental pollutants and residues of styling cosmetics, while not drying or irritating the epidermis. Excessive degreasing leads to a vicious circle: the skin begins to produce more sebum in a defensive reaction, irritation, flaking, itching and even increased hair loss occur.

This is why in shampoos recommended by trichologists , natural cleansing substances play such an important role, gently cleansing the scalp without damaging the hydrolipid layer.

The most commonly used natural cleansing substances in shampoos without CAPB

Decyl Glucoside - is one of the mildest non-ionic surfactants available, derived from glucose (sugar) and fatty alcohol from coconut oil. It lathers perfectly, effectively cleanses hair and scalp, and is exceptionally gentle on sensitive, atopic and children's skin. Numerous studies show that it does not cause irritation even with long-term use.

Coco-Glucoside - another sugar surfactant of plant origin. Obtained from a combination of coconut oil and glucose, it provides gentle cleansing of the scalp and hair, increases hair volume and improves its softness. It is well tolerated by allergic and irritation-prone skin.

Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate - an amino acid surfactant obtained from glutamate and fatty acids from coconut. Thanks to its amino acid structure, it does not damage the scalp's protective barrier, cleanses hair in a very gentle way, and at the same time reduces the feeling of drying after washing.

Sodium Lauroyl Glucose Carboxylate - an innovative surfactant based on sugars and fatty acids, which not only effectively removes impurities, but also has a moisturizing effect. It is used in shampoos for skin with eczema, atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis.

Sodium Cocoamphoacetate - an amphoteric, very mild cleansing ingredient, a safer alternative to CAPB. Obtained from coconut oil, it perfectly stabilizes foam and supports the action of other delicate surfactants.

Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate - a mild amino acid surfactant that also has antimicrobial properties. Often used in products for seborrheic and oily skin, it effectively cleanses hair while reducing inflammation of the scalp.

Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine – a modified, safer form of CAPB, with less irritation potential and better tolerability in people with sensitive scalp.

Natural Cleansers - More Than Just Cleansing

Unlike aggressive detergents such as Sodium Laureth Sulfate or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, natural cleansing substances do not lead to excessive degreasing of the scalp and do not destabilize the balance of microbiota. Importantly, they help:

• maintain an optimal level of skin hydration,
• reduce the risk of dryness and irritation,
• help fight excessive hair loss,
• reduce itching and inflammation,
• increase the volume of hair without weighing it down.

Shampoos based on such formulas are recommended not only for people struggling with excessive hair loss, but also for patients after trichological treatments, pregnant women, children and people after chemotherapy.

Why is it worth choosing Orientana shampoo?

When choosing a shampoo for sensitive scalp, its composition and selection of delicate cleansing substances are extremely important. Orientana Moisturizing Shampoo is a proposal for people who want to effectively cleanse their hair while avoiding the risk of irritation. The product formula has been carefully developed with people struggling with scalp problems and dry hair in mind.

The shampoo does not contain CAPB, but instead uses natural cleansing substances that gently cleanse the scalp and hair without damaging their protective barrier. This makes the shampoo suitable for even the most sensitive skin and everyday use.

Orientana Moisturizing Shampoo is perfect for treating several types of trichological problems. It is an ideal shampoo for dry and brittle hair that requires intensive hydration and regeneration already at the washing stage. The high content of ingredients such as post/pre/probiotics, lychee and plant-based betaine allows for effective rebuilding of hair hydration and prevents brittleness.

This product is also recommended as a shampoo for hair loss . Regular use of mild detergents that do not irritate hair follicles helps to stop excessive hair loss caused by inflammation of the scalp. The lack of aggressive detergents allows you to maintain a healthy condition of hair follicles.

Thanks to its light, well-balanced formula and the presence of natural extracts, it can also be used as a herbal shampoo for oily hair . It effectively washes hair and scalp from excess sebum without stimulating the sebaceous glands to overproduce sebum, which is often a problem after using strong detergents.

Although it is not a typical herbal shampoo, it contains valuable lychee fruit extract , known for its antioxidant, protective and moisturizing properties. It is the presence of this ingredient that additionally protects the scalp from oxidative stress and environmental factors.

The shampoo cleanses the hair and scalp without irritation, leaving them soft, moisturized and naturally shiny. This formula makes the product great not only for everyday home care, but also as a complement to trichological therapies.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine- Free Shampoo and Hair Loss - Does It Matter?

Hair loss due to weakened hair follicles is one of the most common reasons why patients seek trichological consultations. Although the rate of hair growth is influenced by many internal factors, such as hormonal balance, diet, stress, and vitamin deficiencies, more and more studies emphasize the importance of proper scalp care in preventing hair loss. Choosing the right shampoo plays a key role here.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine- free shampoo plays an important role in hair loss prevention, especially in people with a predisposition to scalp inflammation. CAPB, present in many drugstore shampoos, can increase irritation, micro-inflammation and destabilize the scalp microbiome. This in turn translates into weakening of hair follicles and increased hair loss.

For skin prone to dryness and irritation, using shampoos containing CAPB can be an additional burden. This can lead to dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis (SED), itching, and constant scratching, which physically damages the delicate structures around the hair follicles. The inflammation can lead to so-called telogen effluvium — too many hairs going into the resting phase.

Therefore, a shampoo for hair loss should be, above all, gentle and adapted to the needs of a sensitive scalp . It is crucial to avoid aggressive surfactants, which additionally burden and irritate weakened follicles. Instead, a much safer choice are natural cleansing substances, such as Decyl Glucoside, Coco-Glucoside or Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, which effectively cleanse the scalp without causing unwanted reactions.

Orientana Moisturizing Shampoo is a perfect match for the needs of people struggling with hair loss, as it effectively washes hair and cleanses the scalp without irritation. The delicate, moisturizing formula supports the regeneration of the hydrolipid barrier and stabilizes the microbiota, which is essential for the proper functioning of hair follicles.

Moreover, the presence of ingredients such as Probiotics, Plant Extracts and Plant Betaine supports the hydration of the scalp and reduces micro-inflammation, providing support in trichological therapy. Regular use of this type of product reduces hair loss caused by dryness, irritation and chronic inflammation of the scalp.

Comparison: Sodium Coco-Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Myreth Sulfate - What to Avoid?

Choosing the right shampoo for daily scalp care is not just about deciding to give up CAPB. It is equally important to analyze the entire composition of the shampoo and the presence of other detergents that can affect the condition of the skin and hair. Among them, it is worth paying attention to the group of anionic surfactants, such as Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Myreth Sulfate and Sodium Coco-Sulfate (SCS)

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) – most commonly used but controversial

Sodium Laureth Sulfate is one of the most commonly used detergents in cleansing cosmetics — it is found in a large proportion of shampoos available on the mass market. Its main advantage is very good foaming and a strong ability to remove dirt and sebum from the skin and hair surface. However, it is this power of action that is the biggest problem in the case of sensitive scalp.

Shampoo containing Sodium Laureth Sulfate may excessively degrease the scalp, leading to dryness, itching, flaking of the epidermis, and consequently to a weakening of the skin's protective barrier and increased hair loss. This substance is also a strong irritant with prolonged use, especially in the case of skin with a disturbed hydrolipid barrier.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) – older, even more aggressive

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is an even stronger cleansing agent, with a much higher irritating potential than SLES. Its use in scalp care products is now much limited, but it can still be found in some older shampoo and cleanser formulas.

Shampoo based on Sodium Lauryl Sulfate often leads to serious trichological problems: irritation, damage to the epidermal barrier, micro-inflammation of the scalp, increased dandruff and hair loss.

Sodium Myreth Sulfate – slightly milder but still heavy

Sodium Myreth Sulfate is a substance that was developed as a slightly gentler alternative to Sodium Laureth Sulfate, but its mechanism of action on the scalp remains similar. Long-term use of shampoos with this ingredient can also result in dryness and disruption of the skin's natural microbiome.

Sodium Coco-Sulfate – marketing “better”, but chemically similar

SCS is often presented as a "more natural" version of SLS and SLES because it is made from coconut oil. However, in terms of its action on the scalp, it is still a detergent with a strong degreasing potential and may cause similar side effects to its synthetic counterparts.

Shampoo containing SCS may still disrupt the hydrolipid barrier of the scalp, leading to itching, dryness and hair loss in sensitive individuals.

Why doesn't Orientana shampoo contain these substances?

Orientana Moisturizing Shampoo completely abandons the use of Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Myreth Sulfate and SCS, relying solely on natural cleansing substances. Thanks to this, the shampoo gently cleanses the scalp and hair without the risk of irritation and dryness.

This formula is a particularly good choice for:

• people with sensitive scalp,
• people struggling with excessive hair loss,
• trichological patients with atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff and chronic dermatoses,
• people after aesthetic, chemical and pharmacological treatments,
• pregnant and breastfeeding women and children

Universal Shampoo Bar – A Zero Waste Alternative

Growing ecological awareness of consumers means that more and more people reach for universal shampoo bars , which combine scalp care with care for the environment. These types of products perfectly fit into the zero waste philosophy: they limit the use of plastic, reduce the carbon footprint in transport and are extremely efficient in everyday use.

What is the difference between a shampoo bar and a traditional liquid shampoo?

The universal shampoo bar does not contain water as the main ingredient , making it more concentrated and efficient. Additionally, the lack of plastic packaging reduces waste production, and the bar itself is easily biodegradable. Such products often contain a higher concentration of active ingredients, which translates into better care effects while protecting the scalp.

For people with sensitive scalps, however, it is very important to carefully analyze the composition of the shampoo bar . Some cheap products of this type still contain aggressive detergents, such as SCS or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate , which - as we already know - can lead to dryness, itching and increased hair loss problems.

Natural cleansing substances in shampoo bars - the best choice for sensitive scalp

High-quality universal shampoo bar is based on delicate, natural cleansing substances such as:

• Decyl Glucoside - effectively cleanses the scalp and hair without the risk of irritation,
• Coco-Glucoside - increases hair volume and makes it light,
• Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate - soothes the scalp and supports the regeneration of the hydrolipid barrier,
• Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate - effectively removes excess sebum without drying the skin,
• Sodium Lauroyl Glucose Carboxylate — has anti-inflammatory effects and stabilizes the scalp microbiota.

Thanks to such formulas, the universal shampoo bar can be safely used by people struggling with:

• hair loss problem,
• dry and brittle hair,
• excessive oiliness of the scalp,
• Atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff and chronic inflammation.

How to choose a shampoo for sensitive scalp?

Sensitive scalp care requires special attention. This skin is easily irritated, dry and micro-damaged, which can exacerbate trichological problems such as dandruff, itching and even hair loss. Therefore, when choosing a shampoo for sensitive scalp , it is crucial to analyze the composition of the shampoo and choose a formula based on mild, natural cleansing substances.

Ingredients Matter – What to Look for and What to Avoid

The basic criterion when choosing a shampoo is the elimination of aggressive detergents and irritating ingredients. Avoid substances such as:

• CAPB - potentially allergenic detergent,
• Sodium Laureth Sulfate , Sodium Lauryl Sulfate , Sodium Myreth Sulfate - strong degreasing detergents,
• Sodium Coco-Sulfate – seemingly milder, but still heavy on the skin.

Instead, it is worth choosing formulas based on natural products that use mild substances of plant origin:

• Decyl Glucoside , Coco-Glucoside - non-ionic sugar surfactants that gently cleanse the hair and scalp,
• Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate , Sodium Lauroyl Glucose Carboxylate , Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate – amino acid and sugar cleansing ingredients that protect the hydrolipid barrier and moisturize the skin.

Orientana Moisturizing Shampoo fits perfectly into this philosophy of safe care, because it is based on natural cleansing substances that gently but effectively cleanse the scalp.

Who will this shampoo be the best choice for?

Shampoo for dry and brittle hair should not only cleanse, but also strongly moisturize and strengthen the hair structure. Thanks to the presence of ingredients such as Glycerin, Aloe Vera and Betaine of plant origin , Orientana Moisturizing Shampoo rebuilds hair moisture already at the washing stage, smoothes it and prevents its brittleness.

This type of formula also works perfectly as an everyday natural product for people struggling with excessive hair loss, skin problems (such as atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis or eczema) and for people who are looking for a safe shampoo after hairdressing treatments or pharmacotherapy.

Using a gentle shampoo is an investment in the health of the scalp and the condition of the hair. Orientana Moisturizing Shampoo cleanses the scalp and hair without irritation , while strengthening their moisture and elasticity. Thanks to this, the hair becomes more elastic, less susceptible to damage and looks healthy after just a few weeks of regular use.

Magdalena Kania - clinical trichologist