What is a amphoteric surfactant

Amphoteric surfactant is a mild surfactant, it is containing both anionic and cationic hydrophilic groups within the same molecule, there are both acidic and basic groups present at one end of the molecule.

Generally speaking, amphoteric surfactants have low toxicity, low eye and skin irritation, anti-hard water, excellent foaming and compatibility with other surfactants.

Due to the unique characteristics of amphoteric surfactants, their performance depends on the pH value of the final formulation: in acidic environments, amphoteric ions have more cationic properties, while in alkaline environments, their behavior is more like anionic surfactants. Because the structure of amphoteric surfactants is amphoteric, these molecules are compatible with all other types of surfactants.

Betaine and amine oxide are the two most commonly used amphoteric surfactants, Henan Surface Industry Co., Ltd (https://www.surfaceindustry.com) is a professional manufacturer and provider in surfactant field since 2006, content of sodium chloride can adjust based on customers demand.

Amphoteric surfactants are considered milder than their anionic counterparts (such as alkyl ether sulfates), therefore, it is easy to directly or partially replace sulfates in shampoo and shower gel. This is because betaine and amice oxide have the ability to reduce skin and eye irritation caused anionic surfactants

Amphoteric surfactants can provide high foaming and thickening properties, and they are stable in most pH ranges, including in peroxides and hypochlorites solutions. Amphoteric surfactants widely used in home care, personal care, oil and gas, textile and agricultural chemicals etc.