Sesamidopropyl betaine refers to sesamamidopropyl betaine, the sesame fatty acid amidopropyl betaine. Betaine (also known as trimethylglycine or glycine betaine) is a derivative of the amino acid glycine and is formed as a by-product of sugar production from sugar beet molasses (beta vulgaris, hence "betaine").
Sesamidopropyl betaine is used in cosmetic formulations. The mixture of substances acts as a surfactant (washing-active substance; improves the even distribution of the products during application) as well as a foaming agent (increases the foaming and improves the volume, structure and durability of the foam), hair conditioning agent (makes the hair easy to comb, smooth, soft and shiny and gives it volume) and skin care product (keeps the skin in good condition).