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Moumoujus

HYDROLYZED KERATIN.

Valuable CAS 69430-36-0 / ANTISTATIC, FILM FORMING, HAIR CONDITIONING, HUMECTANT, SKIN CONDITIONING

Hydrolyzed Keratin, a protein derivative, serves as a potent skin conditioning agent and humectant. It precisely targets the skin's natural moisture barrier, significantly enhancing hydration levels and mitigating trans-epidermal water loss to promote a smoother, more resilient epidermal surface.

Summary

Skin Conditioning Humectant Film Forming Antistatic

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by reinforcing the skin's intrinsic lipid barrier, thereby optimizing its capacity to retain moisture. It acts as a humectant, drawing and binding water to the stratum corneum, and simultaneously forms a breathable film on the skin's surface to reduce evaporative loss. Lower molecular weight fractions possess the ability to penetrate the stratum corneum, supporting natural repair mechanisms and stimulating fibroblast activity for enhanced collagen production.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–5%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Hydrolyzed keratin nano peptides improved skin hydration by up to 40% in topical formulations through lipid barrier strengthening and enhanced water-binding capacity.
  2. 02 Increased stratum corneum hydration by 14%-23% when incorporated into an ointment base.
  3. 03 Reduced trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) by 26%-46% when added to an ointment base.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Hydrolyzed Keratin demonstrates significant efficacy in topical applications at concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 5%, which are well within common cosmetic formulation practices. Its proven benefits at these practical levels indicate it is not reliant on excessively high or unrealistic concentrations to deliver results, hence it is not considered a 'dusted' ingredient.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5.5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Water-soluble and stable when heated up to 60°C. For emulsions, it should be integrated into the aqueous phase after emulsion formation and at temperatures below 40°C. Optimal functionality for emulsifying and thickening is observed with higher average molecular weight (>3000 Da) variants.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
25%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel concluded Hydrolyzed Keratin and related derivatives are safe for cosmetic use. Human studies up to 25% showed no irritation. While generally non-sensitizing in HRIPTs up to 5% and animal studies up to 25%, an isolated allergic reaction to a hair conditioner containing hydrolyzed keratin has been reported.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Hydrolyzed Keratin is a valuable ingredient, effectively enhancing skin hydration and barrier function across all skin types with a favorable safety profile, making it a reliable addition to moisturizing and protective formulations.

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