Silk

Cosmetics with silk 

The feeling of silk is a feast for the senses. Anyone who has worn silk knows how soft and comfortable it feels against the skin. Silk has been used in cosmetics for decades, mainly in hair care products. The hydrolysed form is usually used (INCI = hydrolysed silk), this is harvested from the cocoon of the silkworm.

The silkworm spins a single thread of silk, 900m long. This thread is the cocoon in which the caterpillar pupates. Up until recently the caterpillar had to be killed in order to harvest the silk. Thanks to scientific advances this is no longer the case and we can avoid animal silk sources in cosmetic products and spare the silkworm!

The hydrolysate is used in hair care products that repair damaged hair. Consumers value silk-containing products as luxurious.

Now there is a new generation of silk protein produced using biotechnology. This ingredient is free from animal contaminants and imitates the outstanding qualities of natural silk.

There are two varieties:

One is a gelling agent and stabiliser which give the skin a silky soft feel. Although it is a gel, it can still be sprayed. The products ability to create a protective barrier on the skin has been proven to be a beneficial characteristic.

The second variety is a particular solid, with a typical particle size of 1-10 μm.

These beads can absorb excess sebum and thus reduce skin shininess. These special particles can also refine skin texture and leave a soft silky feeling skin.

Both ingredients build a breathable protective film on the skin and can add value to many cosmetics.

If you would like to know more about developing new products with silk – just contact us!