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Moumoujus

KERATIN.

Valuable CAS 68238-35-7 / HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING

Keratin is a foundational structural protein integral to skin, hair, and nails. In skincare, its primary role is to bolster hydration, fortify the epidermal barrier, and enhance skin resilience against various environmental stressors.

Summary

skin conditioning hair conditioning humectant occlusive barrier support mechanical strength

Science

Mechanism of Action

Acting as both a humectant and an occlusive, keratin efficiently binds water to the stratum corneum while concurrently minimizing trans-epidermal water loss. It forms robust protein filaments within skin cells, providing crucial mechanical strength, stability, and resilience against physical stress. Keratin is vital for creating a protective barrier, maintaining cellular integrity, regulating cell growth and migration, preventing apoptosis, and supporting overall skin healing. Low-molecular weight keratin hydrolysates can penetrate the stratum corneum, whereas higher molecular weight fractions establish a protective film on the skin's surface.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 2–4%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical studies using keratin hydrolysate in an ointment base demonstrated a 14%-23% increase in stratum corneum hydration at a 2% concentration.
  2. 02 A 4% concentration of keratin hydrolysate in an ointment base preferentially decreased trans-epidermal water loss by 26%-46%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Cosmetic forms of keratin, such as keratin hydrolysate, are water-soluble. These hydrolysates have demonstrated stability and prevented phase separation when incorporated into an ointment base, even after six months of storage.

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The CIR Expert Panel considers keratin-derived ingredients, including Hydrolyzed Keratin, safe for cosmetic use within established concentrations. Hydrolyzed Keratin showed no irritation in human studies up to 25%, and Soluble Keratin up to 10%. Manufacturers must ensure animal-derived sources are free from impurities like pesticide residues, heavy metals, and infectious agents. Formaldehyde release concerns are linked to specific hair *treatment* formulations, not the keratin ingredient itself.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Keratin is a valuable ingredient, clinically proven to significantly enhance skin hydration and reduce trans-epidermal water loss, thereby reinforcing the skin's natural barrier and overall resilience.

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References

Sources