INCI name HYDROLYZED KERATIN
CAS number 69430-36-0
Hydrolyzed keratin is a protein that has undergone a chemical process to break it down into smaller molecules, allowing it to penetrate the hair cuticle effectively. It provides deep hydration and conditioning for both hair and skin while also forming a protective film when applied to the skin or nails.
Purpose
Hydrolyzed keratin reduces frizz with antistatic properties while its film-forming ability creates a protective barrier for moisture retention. As a hair conditioner, it strengthens and smooths strands, while its humectant nature attracts hydration. It also enhances skin conditioning, restoring softness and suppleness.
Origin
Hydrolyzed keratin is sourced from wool and appears as a light yellow to amber transparent liquid with a distinct odor. It undergoes a specialized biological process to break it down into short peptides, making it bioavailable. This treated keratin serves as a high-quality protein source with excellent nutritional value and stable quality.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Hydrolyzed Keratin |
| Type | Protein derivative |
| Source | Derived from wool, feathers, or hair |
| PH | 5.5-7.5 |
| Physical state | Liquid or powder |
| Concentration | 0.5%–5% |
| Color | Pale yellow to amber |
| Odor | Mild to slightly unpleasant |
| Boiling Point | 214.8°C at 760 mmHg |
| Solubility | Water-soluble |
Micro-Penetration Technology
Hydrolyzed keratin has a low molecular weight, allowing it to penetrate deeply into hair fibers and skin layers. This ensures effective repair and nourishment from within rather than just coating the surface.
Structural Reinforcement
Since hair and nails are primarily made of keratin, applying hydrolyzed keratin helps rebuild and strengthen damaged protein structures, improving hair’s elasticity, texture, and durability.
Elasticity Boost
Hydrolyzed keratin increases hair’s tensile strength, making it more flexible and resistant to breakage. In skincare, it enhances skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Intensive Moisture Binding
Its humectant properties attract and retain water molecules, keeping hair hydrated, reducing dryness, and preventing transepidermal water loss in the skin.
Cuticle Sealing Effect
Forms a thin protective layer on the hair shaft, smoothing down the cuticle. This reduces frizz, enhances shine, and prevents external aggressors like pollution and UV damage from causing further harm.
Amino Acid Synergy
Rich in essential amino acids, especially cysteine, which is crucial for reinforcing the disulfide bonds in hair. This restores strength and resilience to chemically treated, heat-damaged, or aging hair.
Heat & Chemical Damage Protection
Acts as a shield against heat styling tools, preventing protein degradation from high temperatures. It also repairs damage from chemical processes like coloring, perming, or relaxing treatments.
Lightweight & Non-Greasy
Unlike some heavy proteins that can weigh hair down, hydrolyzed keratin absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy or sticky residue, making it suitable for all hair and skin types.
Formulation Stability
Highly water-soluble and pH-compatible with most cosmetic formulations, hydrolyzed keratin integrates well into shampoos, conditioners, serums, and skincare products without affecting their stability.
Enhanced Shine & Smoothness
By replenishing lost keratin, it restores a glossy, polished look to hair while making it softer, silkier, and easier to manage.
Applications of Hydrolyzed Keratin
Hair Care Products
- Shampoos & Conditioners: Strengthens hair, reduces breakage, and improves manageability.
- Hair Masks & Treatments: Deeply repairs damaged hair, restoring hydration and shine.
- Leave-In Conditioners & Serums: Provides a protective barrier against heat styling and environmental damage.
- Hair Styling Products: Enhances elasticity, making hair more resistant to heat tools and chemical treatments.
Skin Care Products
Anti-Aging Creams:
Moisturizers & Lotions: Improves hydration and strengthens the skin barrier.
Anti-Aging Creams: Enhances skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Serums & Face Masks: Helps restore skin proteins, improving texture and resilience.
Hand & Foot Creams: Repairs and strengthens brittle nails and rough skin.
Nail Care Products
- Nail Strengthening Treatments: Reinforces weak, brittle nails, preventing splitting and breakage.
- Cuticle Oils & Creams: Provides nourishment to the cuticles, promoting healthy nail growth.
Cosmetic Formulations
- Makeup Products: Used in foundations and primers to improve skin texture and hydration.
- Lip Care Products: Enhances moisture retention in lip balms and lipsticks.
Medical & Pharmaceutical Uses
- Wound Healing Creams: Assists in skin regeneration by supplying essential proteins.
- Post-Procedure Skincare: Used in recovery creams after chemical peels, laser treatments, or microneedling.
Textile & Biopolymer Applications
- Hair Extensions & Wigs: Coats fibers to improve durability and natural appearance.
- Biodegradable Films & Coatings: Utilized in eco-friendly materials for its protein-binding properties.
