Hydrolyzed Proteins

Protein hydrolysates for conditioning and film-forming effects

Hydrolyzed proteins are water-soluble ingredients obtained by breaking down proteins such as wheat, silk, soy, keratin, oats, or collagen into smaller peptide fragments and amino acids. This section covers a range of protein hydrolysates supplied as liquid concentrates or fine powders, sourced from both plant and animal origin, suitable for formulators working at any scale.

Their small molecular size allows these fragments to bind to hair fibers and skin surfaces, forming a thin protective film that improves manageability and reduces surface friction. Formulators commonly use them in conditioners, leave-in sprays, repair masks, shampoos, anti-aging serums, and moisturizing creams, where they contribute to a smoother, more elastic feel. Some hydrolysates pair well with botanical extracts and dried plant material found in our face masks, scrubs, and dried flowers range, while others complement pearlescent or color-active ingredients from our dyes, pearlescents, and glitters selection when developing multi-functional finished products.

Because molecular weight and origin vary between wheat, silk, soy, and keratin hydrolysates, each type behaves differently in a formula, affecting viscosity, film flexibility, and compatibility with other actives. This makes protein selection an important step for anyone building conditioning or repair-focused cosmetic products.

Plant based versus animal derived hydrolysates

Wheat, silk, soy, oat, rice, and bean proteins fall under the plant derived group, while keratin and collagen come from animal sources. Plant proteins tend to give a lighter, less tacky film, which suits rinse off products and lightweight leave-in formulas where a heavy residue is undesirable.

Animal derived proteins such as the Keratin Protein Hydrolyzate 50 ml or the smaller Keratin Protein Hydrolyzate 25 ml pack share a structural similarity with the hair shaft, so they are often chosen for repair oriented conditioners and damage control treatments. Silk protein, represented here by the Silk Protein Hydrolyzate 10 ml, contributes a distinct silky slip and gloss that many formulators combine with other actives for finishing serums.

Choosing a hydrolysate and building a formula around it

Selection usually starts with the desired sensory result. For a matte, non greasy finish in a shampoo base, a rice or bean protein works well, such as the Rice Protein Hydrolyzate 50 ml or the Bean Protein Hydrolysate 50 ml. For richer moisturizing creams and body lotions, soy based options like the Soy Protein Hydrolyzate 50 ml or the Soy Protein Hydrolysate Gerard's Cosmetic 50 ml add a soft cushioned feel.

Beyond classic proteins, this section also includes fermentation and byproduct derived options that behave in a similar conditioning role. The Yogurt Concentrate, 50 ml and the Beer Yeast Protein Hydrolysate 50 ml bring additional amino acids and micronutrients into a formula, while the Grape Seed Hydrolysate 50 ml and the Hydrolyzate Olivat, 30 ml introduce a plant based profile suited for lighter facial serums and toners. These hydrolysates often work alongside botanical powders from our face masks and dried flowers range, layering conditioning with texture and mild exfoliation in a single product.

Origin, packaging, and storage

Hydrolysates in this section are sourced from suppliers in Italy, Germany, the United States, France, Spain, and Poland, arriving as compact liquid concentrates in small volumes from ten to fifty milliliters, convenient for dosing at low use rates typical of these actives. Once opened, bottles should be kept tightly closed, away from direct light and heat, to preserve the stability of the amino acid content over time.

For projects that combine conditioning actives with decorative or packaging elements, our Molds, Packaging, Tools section covers the containers and tools needed to bring a finished formula to market.

FAQ

What is the difference between wheat, silk, soy, and keratin protein hydrolysates?

They differ mainly in molecular weight, amino acid profile, and origin. Keratin hydrolysate suits damaged fibers due to structural similarity to hair, silk gives a lightweight silky feel, wheat and soy offer moisturizing film formation, and each performs differently depending on formulation pH and application.

Can protein hydrolysates be combined with other active ingredients in one formula?

Yes, protein hydrolysates are generally compatible with botanical extracts, humectants, and pearlescent additives. They are typically added to the water phase during cooldown, below higher processing temperatures, to preserve peptide structure and functional performance in the finished formula.

Are liquid or powder protein hydrolysates better for small batch production?

Liquid concentrates are easier to dose precisely in small batches and dissolve instantly, while powders offer longer shelf stability and lower shipping weight, making them more practical for formulators working with larger volumes or storing stock over time.

How should protein hydrolysates be stored to maintain stability?

Store hydrolysates in tightly sealed containers, away from direct light and heat, ideally in a cool dry place. Powdered forms are generally more stable long term, while liquid concentrates should be checked periodically for color, odor, or consistency changes.

What percentage of protein hydrolysate is typically used in a formulation?

Usage levels commonly range from about 1 to 5 percent depending on the specific hydrolysate, desired conditioning intensity, and product type, though formulators should always test within their own base formula since results vary by concentration and combination.

Recommendations

When choosing a protein hydrolysate for a specific formula, start with the intended finish: keratin types work well for repair-focused hair care, while silk or wheat variants suit lightweight leave-in products and facial serums. Compare liquid and powder forms based on your production scale and preferred dosing method. Check the amino acid source, since plant and animal derived options behave differently in emulsions. For batch selection or formulation guidance, our team is available by email to help match the right hydrolysate to your project.