Hydrolyzed Protein
Before proteins can enter the bloodstream and reach muscle cells and organs, they must be broken down into amino acids and peptides by the digestive tract. Without this breakdown, proteins would not be able to pass through the intestinal wall’s transport channels.
The main advantage of hydrolyzed proteins is that they require minimal digestive effort, yet nutrients still reach the bloodstream quickly and efficiently. Protein hydrolysates are widely used in sports and sports medicine because their ‘free’ amino acids are more readily absorbed by the body, leading to faster nutrient delivery to muscle tissue. This benefits athletes and bodybuilders by accelerating muscle recovery and growth. Additionally, hydrolysed proteins are gaining popularity in the cosmetics industry for similar reasons.
Hydrolyzed Proteins in Hair Care Products
Hydrolyzed proteins are widely used in the cosmetics industry, particularly in hair care products. For example, hydrolyzed rice or wheat proteins are common ingredients in natural cosmetic shampoos. These proteins prevent hair from becoming electrically charged during brushing or styling, and they enhance its suppleness and strength. Unlike intact proteins that only form a protective layer on the hair’s surface, hydrolyzed proteins can penetrate the hair shaft to strengthen and revitalize it.
Hydrolyzed wheat proteins in shampoos act like conditioners, adding vitality, volume, and strength to hair. They make hair more supple and help rebuild the hair fiber. Being completely vegan and water-soluble, protein hydrolysates improve hair resistance and protect it from external damage. While intact proteins only form a fine, smoothing layer on the surface, the smaller molecules of protein hydrolysates penetrate the hair easily. These amino acids rebuild and strengthen the hair structure, and can even accelerate hair growth.
In addition to shampoos, protein hydrolysates are also effective in hair oils and treatments. They begin repairing damage as soon as they penetrate the inner layers of the hair, quickly making it feel healthier and stronger. Suitable for all hair types—whether dry, oily, fine, or brittle—protein hydrolysates enhance hair care across the board.
Hydrolyzed Proteins in Skincare Products
Protein hydrolysates are also beneficial in skin care products, where they can boost blood circulation, enhance skin elasticity, and reduce moisture loss. Products containing these proteins often have healing and skin-tightening effects, making them ideal for mature or damaged skin. Protein hydrolysates improve skin resilience and promote a healthier appearance by enhancing circulation and elasticity.
Hydrolyzed Protein in the Cosmetics Regulation
Hydrolyzed wheat proteins were once suspected of triggering contact allergies in sensitive individuals. However, in 2017, the EU Commission amended the Cosmetics Regulation to address these concerns. According to Regulation EU 2017/2228, the average molecular mass of peptides in hydrolyzed wheat protein used in cosmetic products must not exceed 3.5 kDa (kilodaltons). The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) reviewed this issue and concluded that hydrolyzed wheat protein is safe for consumers if this molecular mass limit is adhered to.
The cosmetics industry had ample time to adapt to this new regulation, as the 3.5 kDa limit had been under discussion for several years. This preparation ensured a smooth transition to compliance with the updated safety standards for protein hydrolysates in cosmetic products.
PROFILE: Hydrolyzed wheat protein
INCI: Hydrolyszd Wheat Protein
CAS number: 70084-87-6
Einecs number: 305-225-0
Areas of application: for skin and hair care products: Creams, lotions, shampoos and conditioners. Improves sun protection against free radicals. Approved for certified natural cosmetics.
Ingredients: rich in natural vitamin E, high content of the amino acids proline and glutamine
PROFILE: Hydrolyzed oat protein
INCI: Hydrolyzed Oat Protein
CAS number: 151661-87-9
Properties: gives the skin a soft feeling, for more suppleness of the hair, prevents static charging of the hair.
Ingredients: contains eight essential amino acids, high biological value
PROFILE: hydrolyzed pea protein
INCI: Hydrolyzed Pea Protein
CAS number: 222400-29-5
Properties: strengthens the hair and gives shine, helps to keep the hair hydrated, prevents hair breakage, restorative, antioxidant, volumising, conditioning and firming properties.
Ingredients: including essential amino acids
PROFILE: Hydrolysed rice protein
INCI: Hydrolyzed Rice Protein
CAS number: 156715-40-1
Properties: prevents hair from becoming statically charged, for hair conditioning and skin care
PROFILE: Hydrolysed jojoba protein
INCI: Hydrolyzed Jojoba Protein
CAS number: 100684-35-3
Einecs number: 309-708-7
Properties: hair and skin conditioning
PROFILE: Hydrolyzed yeast protein
INCI: Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein
CAS number: 100684-36-4
Einecs number: 309-709-2
Use: for antistatic and hair care products, improves the moisture content of the skin
We like to work with these hydrolyzed proteins in hair and skin care:
| Trade Name | Company | INCI | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheat Herbaprotein | Lipoid Kosmetik AG | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein | |
| Promois WG-SP | SEIWA KASEI CO., LTD. | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein | |
| Wheat Tein NPNF | Tri-K Industries, Inc. | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein | |
| SpecPure HWP | Spec-Chem Industry Inc | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein | |
| Gluadin WP | BASF | Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein | |
| Hydrotriticum 2000 | Croda | Aqua, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein | |
| Cropeptide W | Croda | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Starch, Water (Aqua) | |
| Cocoyl Wheat Polypeptide | Sinerga | Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein | |
| iProt Cereals | KimiKa, LLC (Formerly Cosphatech) | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Avena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract | |
| PROTELAN VE/K NP | Zschimmer & Schwarz | Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate | |
| Hidrahair Progress | Chemyunion | Water, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Rhodophyceae Extract, Sodium Stearate | |
| KeraPlant NPNF | Tri-K Industries, Inc. | Water, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Corn Protein | |
| VEGEQUAT | Sinerga | Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein | |
| PROQUERATIN | AQiA Química Inovativa | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Carbocysteine, Threonine, Serine, Glutamic Acid | |
| Phytocream 2000 | Sinerga | Potassium Palmitoyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol | |
| iQuat Biodegra | KimiKa, LLC (Formerly Cosphatech) | Water, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Hydrolyzed Milk Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Avena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract, Lactose, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Glycerin | |
| Cerealmilk Premium SP | Chemyunion | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Protein, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Protein, Sodium Stearate, Sodium Chloride | |
| HYDROVEG Rnp | VARIATI SPA | Aqua, Sodium PCA, Diglycerin, Urea, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Sorbitol, Lysine, PCA, Allantoin, Lactic Acid | |
| Hydroveg VV | VARIATI SPA | Aqua, Sodium PCA, Diglycerin, Urea, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Sorbitol, Lysine, PCA, Allantoin, Lactic Acid | |
| Hydrolyzed Oat WNGN | Provital | Aqua, Hydrolyzed Oat Protein | |
| AVENOSOL | VARIATI SPA | Hydrolyzed Oat Protein | |
| Uniprosyn PS-18 | Givaudan Active Beauty | Butylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Oat Protein, Niacinamide, Adenosine Triphosphate | |
| AVOGELIA NF | VARIATI SPA | Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Aqua, Glycerin, Potassium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Oat Protein, Sodium Cocoyl Amino Acids | |
| iProt Cereals | KimiKa, LLC (Formerly Cosphatech) | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Avena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract | |
| Cerealmilk Premium SP | Chemyunion | Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Protein, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Protein, Sodium Stearate, Sodium Chloride | |
| iQuat Biodegra | KimiKa, LLC (Formerly Cosphatech) | Water, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Hydrolyzed Milk Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Avena Sativa (Oat) Meal Extract, Lactose, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Glycerin | |
| SpecKare HRP (Hydrolyzed Rice Protein) | Spec-Chem Industry Inc | Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | |
| Rice Tein NPNF | Tri-K Industries, Inc. | Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | |
| PROARROZ SP | AQiA Química Inovativa | Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | |
| Promois WR-SP | SEIWA KASEI CO., LTD. | Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | |
| SHAROHYAL RICE | Sharon Personal Care Srl | Aqua, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans, Hyaluronic Acid | |
| Vari Ker Green | VARIATI SPA | Aqua, Hydrolyzed Pea Protein, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein | |
| Protectagen | Ashland | Aqua, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | |
| Promois WR-CAQ | SEIWA KASEI CO., LTD. | Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Water | |
| Polycare RICE C | Syensqo | Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | |
| KERARICE GNSB | Provital | Water, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | |
| Prolixir-ICE | Ashland | Water, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | |
| Survixyl RZ | Ashland | Water, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | |
| PeptAlde 4.0 | BASF | Water, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Citric Acid | |
| EssentiaTein Protect | Tri-K Industries, Inc. | Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Adansonia Digitata Seed Extract, Amaranthus Caudatus Seed Extract | |
| Fision WrinkleFix | Tri-K Industries, Inc. | Water, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydrolyzed Pea Protein, Glycine, Proline, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate | |
| Vari-Rice 100 | VARIATI SPA | Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Protein | |
| OKINACEA | Gelyma | Water, Caulerpa Lentillifera Extract, Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Protein | |
| Hydroveg VV | VARIATI SPA | Aqua, Sodium PCA, Diglycerin, Urea, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Sorbitol, Lysine, PCA, Allantoin, Lactic Acid | |
| Fiber.CARE X | AQiA Química Inovativa | Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Ethyl Olivate, Ethyl Laurate, Jojoba Esters, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax, Xylitol, Glycolic Acid, Alcohol, Aqua | |
| CollaPlant Z NPNF | Tri-K Industries, Inc. | Water, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Rice Amino Acids, Hydrolyzed Adansonia Digitata Seed Extract, Proline | |
| Promois WJ-SP | SEIWA KASEI CO., LTD. | Hydrolyzed Pea Protein | |
| Pea.Protein | Sinerga | Hydrolyzed Pea Protein | |
| Coco Pea.Soft | Sinerga | Water, Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Pea Protein | |
| KeraMatch V | Croda | Aqua, Hydrolyzed Pea Protein, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein | |
| Vari Ker Green | VARIATI SPA | Aqua, Hydrolyzed Pea Protein, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein | |
| Liposomal Phytocollagen | Lipomize | Hydrolyzed Pea Protein, Water, Phosphatidylcholine, Tocopheryl Acetate, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum | |
| Fision WrinkleFix | Tri-K Industries, Inc. | Water, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydrolyzed Pea Protein, Glycine, Proline, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate | |
| EMortal | BioSpectrum, Inc. | Propanediol, Aqua, Phytosterols, Lecithin, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Squalane, Hydrolyzed Pea Protein, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Ceramide NP | |
| Fision HydraTress | Tri-K Industries, Inc. | Water, Panthenol, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Glycerin, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Seed Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate |
Hydrolyzed Protein as Effective Ingredient
Even in cosmetics, proteins can only be optimally absorbed by the body if they have undergone hydrolysis. This is the only way they can penetrate deep into the skin and hair and develop their effect there. Hydrolyzed proteins are therefore an excellent choice for sophisticated care products. If you would also like to offer a product with a hydrolysed protein, please contact us.
Sources:
Comparative Characterization of Gluten and Hydrolyzed Wheat Proteins.; Gabler AM, Scherf KA.Biomolecules. 2020 Aug 24;10(9):1227.
Safety Assessment of Plant-Derived Proteins and Peptides as Used in Cosmetics.; Burnett CL, Boyer IJ, Bergfeld WF, Belsito DV, Hill RA, Klaassen CD, Liebler DC, Marks JG Jr, Shank RC, Slaga TJ, Snyder PW, Heldreth B.Int J Toxicol. 2022 Aug;41(2_suppl):5S-20S.
Protein-Based Materials in Cosmetics. ; Dai, L., Hansenne-Cervantes, I. (2023). In: Maia, F.R.A., Oliveira, J.M., Reis, R.L. (eds) Handbook of the Extracellular Matrix. (2023).Springer, Cham.
Biotechnology of functionalproteins and peptides for hair cosmetic formulations.; Tinoco A, Martins M, Cavaco-Paulo A, Ribeiro A.Trends Biotechnol. 2022 May;40(5):591-605.