An amphoteric surfactant is a type of surfactant that can act as both an acid and a base, depending on the pH of the solution. This unique property allows it to interact with both positively and negatively charged substances, making it versatile in various applications. Amphoteric surfactants are commonly used in personal care products, such as shampoos and body washes, due to their mildness and ability to create stable foams. These surfactants can help improve the solubility of other ingredients and enhance the overall performance of formulations. They are also effective in cleaning and emulsifying, making them valuable in industrial applications, such as detergents and cosmetics.