Science
Mechanism of Action
Operating as a potent humectant, Hydrolyzed Sericin actively draws and locks moisture into the skin's superficial layers, ensuring sustained hydration. It concurrently forms a subtle, protective film on the skin's surface, acting as a shield against external stressors such as pollution and UV radiation, while also mitigating transepidermal water loss. Its amino acid profile supports collagen synthesis, contributing to improved skin elasticity and a reduction in the visibility of fine lines. Furthermore, it exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, which collectively soothe irritation, facilitate cellular migration, and support tissue regeneration. The ingredient also demonstrates inhibitory effects on melanin production, promoting a more even skin tone, and possesses documented antibacterial activity.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Achieved hygroscopicity equivalent to a 60% glycerol solution, indicating significant moisturizing capabilities.
- 02 Reduced tyrosine activity by over 50%, demonstrating inhibition of melanin synthesis and potential for skin brightening.
- 03 A sericin solution notably decreased bacterial colony counts (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli) from 146 to 29 over 7 days, highlighting antibacterial efficacy.
- 04 Topical application of a sericin cream on full-thickness rat skin wounds resulted in complete healing, absence of ulceration, and increased collagen production after 15 days, showcasing wound-healing and regenerative potential.
- 05 Low concentrations of acid-degraded sericin promoted high cell viability in cell culture (HeLa cells).
- 06 Optimal concentrations of heat-degraded and alkali-degraded sericin were most suitable for cell viability in cell culture (HeLa cells).
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Sericin's solubility may decrease at lower temperatures, which can induce gelation due to structural conversion into β-sheets. Higher concentrations and elevated temperatures can accelerate this gelation process. For certain 'sericin fixing-effects,' a pH range of 7.0–8.5 at temperatures of 30–40 °C has been identified as suitable. The raw material liquid of hydrolyzed sericin typically presents a pH between 5.0 and 6.5.
Safety
Safety Profile
The CIR Expert Panel has deemed the available data sufficient to evaluate the safety of Hydrolyzed Sericin, classifying hydrolyzed silk as a non-irritant based on acute oral toxicity studies (no toxicity observed at 10 g/kg in rats). While specific use concentration data for Hydrolyzed Sericin in cosmetic formulations were not submitted to CIR, it is found in products registered with the FDA's Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program (VCRP). A notable observation, not specifically for hydrolyzed sericin but for sericin, involved skin depigmentation in renal patients after applying an 8% sericin cream; this effect was observed in a specific patient population.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Hydrolyzed Sericin is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, offering significant hydrating, protective, collagen-stimulating, and brightening benefits across diverse skin types with a low irritation potential.
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References
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