The Coco-Betaine is a natural surfactant used in organic formulations as long as it has been manufactured acceptably; it contains no ‘synthetics.’ Cocamidopropyl Betaine is always produced via a synthetic process, although the coco part and the betaine part are natural. Coco-Betaine is more natural, but it is also more irritating. This example is one of many in the haircare industry where more "natural" ingredients end up being worse for your hair.