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HYDROLYZED PEA PROTEIN.

Valuable CAS 222400-29-5 / ANTISTATIC, HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

Hydrolyzed Pea Protein is a plant-derived ingredient, rich in amino acids and peptides, obtained through a controlled hydrolysis process of pea protein. This breakdown into smaller molecules enhances its bioavailability and absorption by the skin, delivering significant hydrating and barrier-supporting benefits.

Emollient Skin Conditioning Moisturizing Barrier Support Anti-aging Surfactant Hair Conditioning Antistatic

Science

This ingredient functions by forming a lightweight, protective film on the skin's surface, which effectively minimizes transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and locks in moisture, promoting skin softness and suppleness. Its rich profile of amino acids (e.g., arginine, lysine) and peptides supports the skin's natural barrier function and facilitates cellular regeneration processes, leading to a smoother and more even skin tone. Hydrolyzed Pea Protein is also capable of activating the expression of aquaporins, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and filaggrin, which collectively enhance intrinsic skin moisturization and elasticity. Additionally, it exhibits mild surfactant properties, aiding in gentle cleansing.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.0001–20%
Optimal

0.05%

Key findings

  1. 01 In human skin samples treated for 24 hours, observed decreased cellular stress, improved preservation of cutaneous structures, and enhanced moisturization of the stratum corneum.
  2. 02 Identified as a preferred effective concentration range in cosmetic formulations for maintaining or restoring skin moisturization.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The provided research data does not indicate that Hydrolyzed Pea Protein is commonly 'dusted' or associated with 'red flag' concentrations that pose significant risks, aside from potential instability or irritation at very high degrees of hydrolysis (>20% DH) during formulation.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 3 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Optimal stability and cosmetic efficacy are typically achieved with a Degree of Hydrolysis (DH) between 5-15%; a DH exceeding 20% may lead to irritation or formulation instability. For acidic formulations, optimal performance and aggregation prevention are observed at pH 4-5, with increased protein solubility noted at pH 4.5 and pH 7.0. Pre-hydrating the ingredient at room temperature before heating can mitigate clumping. The addition of stabilizers like xanthan gum can further enhance heat tolerance in neutral pH products.


Safety

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Hydrolyzed Pea Protein is safe for cosmetic applications at current practices of use and concentration. Human dermal studies showed no irritation with a 25% aqueous solution. Its use is approved by regulatory bodies like the European Cosmetics Regulation, and Pea Protein (>80% protein) has also achieved Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for food use, supporting its favorable safety profile.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

Hydrolyzed Pea Protein is a valuable and highly compatible ingredient, offering significant moisturizing, barrier-supporting, and anti-aging benefits for all skin types, attributed to its rich peptide and amino acid composition.


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