Hydrolyzed Keratin

Benefits
Hair Structure ImprovementHair Loss PreventionAnti Dandruff

What is Hydrolyzed Keratin?

Hydrolyzed keratin consists of keratin protein fragments produced through hydrolysis of materials like wool, feathers, or horns, yielding smaller peptides for enhanced solubility and penetration. Primarily featured in hair care products such as shampoos and conditioners, it also appears in skin moisturizers and nail treatments. Functionally, it coats hair cuticles to seal damage, boost elasticity, and minimize friction for smoother texture. As a film-former, it creates a protective layer against environmental stressors, while its humectant properties bind water to maintain hydration. Antistatic effects reduce static buildup, improving styling ease. In skin applications, it supports moisture retention and suppleness without clogging pores.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-2 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Nail conditioning agent
Improves the health and appearance of nails.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Antistatic agent
Reduces static electricity and flyaways by improving surface conductivity, enhancing hair manageability and smoothness in conditioners and styling products.
Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.
Humectant
Attracts and holds water in the stratum corneum, boosting hydration and plumpness; commonly used in moisturizers, cleansers, and hair conditioners.

Benefits

Supports hair structure for resilience against breakage

May contribute to hair loss prevention via strengthening

Assists in anti-dandruff products through conditioning

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with damaged or chemically treated hair
Allergic to animal-derived proteins like wool
People seeking nail strength and healthier appearance
Preferring fully vegan or plant-based skincare
Those with dry skin needing hydration boost
With rare protein sensitivity on scalp or skin

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety assessments with minimal irritation risk
  • Non-comedogenic, suitable for acne-prone skin

Frequently Asked Questions about Hydrolyzed Keratin

What sources provide hydrolyzed keratin?

Typically derived from animal sources like sheep wool, feathers, or animal horns via hydrolysis.

Does it benefit skin as well as hair?

Yes, it acts as a skin conditioner to enhance softness and moisture retention.

Is hydrolyzed keratin safe for daily use?

Yes, it's regarded as safe in cosmetics at typical concentrations with low irritation potential.