Name
Hydrolyzed Silk
Description
Hydrolyzed silk is a common ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products, especially in hair and skin care formulations. It is derived from silk proteins that have been broken down into smaller, water-soluble fragments, allowing it to penetrate more easily into skin and hair.
Benefits
Silk proteins are similar to proteins in skin and hair so they provide repair to damaged hair and skin.
Considerations
• Hidden Preservatives
Some hydrolyzed silk products have preservatives such as parabens, quaternary ammonium compounds and phenoxyethanol that may not be disclosed on the label.
• Skin Irritation/Allergies
Allergies to hydrolyzed silk are possible.
• Environmental Impact
Silk production has environmental implications, as it typically involves animal-based farming and resources.
Research Sources
https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/silk%20proteins.pdf
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/substance/480406940
Summary
Generally safe.