Active ingredient
Keratin
INCIHydrolyzed Keratin
Last reviewed by BIOSAR Scientific Team, PharmD, Cosmetic Chemistry, Pharmacy practice on .
Hydrolyzed keratin is a protein fragment used in haircare to deposit a temporary reparative film along damaged cuticles. It binds to areas of cuticle erosion, smooths the hair-shaft surface, and improves combability and shine. Pairs broadly with most actives. No major conflicts.
Considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Topical hydrolyzed keratin is considered safe during pregnancy and lactation per Mother to Baby. Note: in-salon keratin smoothing services that release formaldehyde are a separate concern and are typically avoided in pregnancy; this safety note covers cosmetic-grade hydrolyzed keratin only.
What Keratin does
The structural protein hair is made of. It forms a smoothing film along the fiber, filling the look of damaged, roughened areas so hair reads smoother, stronger and more even from root to tip.
What the research says
- +18.6%Lab test: keratin peptides strengthened relaxed hairIn lab tests on chemically relaxed, very curly hair soaked 24 hours in keratin solutions, a mid-weight keratin peptide raised the force needed to break a fibre by 18.6% versus relaxed hair soaked in water. The smallest peptide did not help.Read the study →Int J Cosmet Sci 2020 (Malinauskyte et al.)
From the BIOSAR catalog
