Soyamidopropyl betaine (inci)

Soyamidopropyl betaine, a product based on soya fatty acids, is used in cosmetic formulations. "Betaine" (also called trimethylglycine or glycine betaine) refers to a quaternary ammonium compound with three methyl groups. Betaine is a derivative of the amino acid glycine and is a by-product of sugar production, e.g. from sugar beet molasses (Beta vulgaris, hence "betaine"). The mixture acts as a surfactant (washing-active substance; improves the distribution of the products during application), skin cleansing agent, hair conditioning agent (makes the hair easy to comb, smooth, soft and shiny and gives it volume) and as a skin care product (keeps the skin in good condition).