Hydrolyzed Proteins

What are hydrolyzed proteins?

The word Hydrolyzed comes from the Greek word lysis, denoting disintegration or loosening, and hydro, which means water. Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction in which water (hydro) reacts with a compound to produce other compounds by splitting (lysis) a bond within the compound. The water, in effect, wedges itself between the two sides of the original bond within the compound, and then the water (H₂O) splits into a hydrogen cation (H) and an hydroxide anion (HO), thereby splitting the compound. The result is a hydrolyzed substance.

When a protein is hydrolyzed, the gigantic protein molecules gradually break down into products of successively lower molecular weight, called peptides. Complete hydrolysis further breaks the peptides into individual amino acids.

Why use hydrolyzed proteins instead of the protein itself?

Here are some of the differences between hydrolyzed proteins and the proteins they were derived from:

• While high molecular weight proteins have considerable film-forming and surface active properties, low molecular weight compounds such as peptides, amino acids, polyphenols and more can pass through the skin barrier and act on cells of the dermis and epidermis and develop biological properties (sun protection, antioxidant, synthesis activator, etc.).
• Since the efficacy of an active ingredient varies as a function of the nature of its constituents, of their composition and of their molecular organization, the peptides produced through hydrolysis will have different properties and can be more effective in achieving a specific skin care benefits.
• Peptides are more soluble, and therefore more available for use by the body than the original protein.

Why use hydrolyzed proteins in skin care products?

We use hydrolyzed proteins because they improve the feel of our products, enhance the moisturizing capabilities of our skin creams and lotions, and impart remarkable bonding properties to strengthen hair and produce silk-like conditioning in hair products. Each hydrolyzed protein has its own unique benefits, as explained in the next section.

Some hydrolyzed proteins we use in our products

Hydrolyzed Oats

A naturally derived, soluble form of hydrolyzed whole oats that contains mainly oligosaccharides (carbohydrates). This novel skin care ingredient imparts a soft, cushiony feel on the skin, giving it a near-velvet smoothness after drying. Studies have shown that hydrolyzed oats retain significantly more moisture no matter what the humidity, and gain up to 50% more moisture at relative low humidity – when extra moisture is most needed.

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein

A naturally derived protein of vegetable origin, hydrolyzed soy protein is produced by the enzymatic hydrolysis of soya flour. When used in skin care products it increases the ability of the skin to hold moisture and provides a smoothing effect for minimizing roughness and wrinkles.

Hydrolyzed Silk Protein

Hydrolyzed silk protein forms moisture-retentive films that smooth and moisturize the skin. It provides a silky emolliency in creams, lotions, shampoos and hair conditioners.

Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein

A naturally derived, hydrolyzed wheat protein that contains wheat oligosaccharides (carbohydrates) and constitutes a unique hydrating complex offering a combination of moisture-balancing and film-forming properties that work synergistically to give hair better body control, and skin a smoother softer feel. Wonderfully moisturizing in lotions, creams and anti-aging products.

You can read information about other ingredients on our information page.