Science
Mechanism of Action
As a protein hydrolysate, this extract primarily functions to attract and bind water, thereby performing as a humectant and skin conditioning agent. The hydrolysis process breaks down proteins into smaller amino acid fragments, including glutamic acid and aspartic acid. These amino acids are crucial components of the skin’s natural moisturizing factors (NMFs), aiding in cellular water retention and contributing to a healthier skin barrier. Broader research on protein hydrolysates suggests potential additional bioactivities, such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and anti-aging effects, although specific clinical substantiation for this particular extract is not documented.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
While processing of pig intestinal byproducts has been performed at diverse pH levels (e.g., pH 2.0 with pepsin, pH 8.0 with alcalase), a specific optimal pH range for the stability of Hydrolyzed Pig Intestine Extract in cosmetic formulations is not explicitly documented. Protein hydrolysates typically exhibit a shift in their isoelectric point (pI) to lower values (e.g., pH 3.7-5.7) post-hydrolysis, which can influence their stability profile. For general hydrolysates, cold storage (e.g., -21°C) is often recommended to preserve solubility and integrity.
Safety
Safety Profile
Direct safety assessments by bodies such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) or Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) specifically for 'HYDROLYZED PIG INTESTINE EXTRACT' are not available. However, the CIR Expert Panel has evaluated broader categories like 'Skin and Connective Tissue-Derived Proteins and Peptides' (including Hydrolyzed Collagen and Hydrolyzed Gelatin) and deemed them safe under current cosmetic use practices. A significant regulatory consideration exists within the European Union, where Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 (Annex II, entry 419) references Regulation (EC) No 1069/2009 concerning animal by-products. This regulation prohibits Category 1 and Category 2 animal materials, and derived ingredients, from use in cosmetic products. The suitability of 'Hydrolyzed Pig Intestine Extract' for EU markets is therefore critically dependent on its specific sourcing and processing to ensure it does not originate from prohibited high-risk animal materials.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
While offering theoretical benefits as a humectant and skin conditioner, the absence of specific safety assessments and significant regulatory complexities concerning sourcing for markets like the EU render this ingredient questionable for widespread cosmetic formulation.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…
References
Sources