Proteins & Peptides in Skincare & Haircare

This comprehensive guide covers the proteins and peptides for skin & hair care, how they work, formulation notes, usage ranges, precautions and quality tips — written for formulators and product developers.

What are Proteins & Peptides?

• Proteins are large biomolecules made of amino acids. In cosmetics, we use hydrolysed proteins (broken into smaller fragments) that are water-soluble and film-forming.

• Peptides are shorter amino acid chains (2–50 residues). They act as signalling molecules that can trigger skin repair, collagen synthesis, or scalp benefits.

• Hydrolyzation & molecular size determine penetration, solubility, and performance.

Why Use Proteins & Peptides?

They support:

• Hydration & barrier repair

• Elasticity & anti-aging activity

• Hair strength & reduced breakage

• Colour protection in haircare

• Premium sensory & luxury claims

Used widely in: serums, creams, masks, shampoos, conditioners, leave-ins, and targeted repair treatments.

Reference Table — Proteins & Peptides

Ingredient	Key Benefits	Best For	Usage Notes
Hydrolysed  Black Pearl Protein	Brightening, mineral-rich	Mature/dull skin, luxury serums	0.5–3% in cool-down
Hydrolysed  Collagen Peptide	Elasticity, hydration, plumping	Anti-aging serums & creams	0.5–5%, <40°C
Hydrolysed  Corn Protein	Strengthens, improves resilience	Shampoos, conditioners	1–6%, water-soluble
Hydrolysed  Egg Protein	Nourishing, shine, film-forming	Hair masks, conditioners	0.5–5%; allergen caution
Hydrolysed  Keratin Protein	Repairs damage, smooths, reduces frizz	Chemically treated hair	1–8%; avoid overuse
Hydrolysed  Milk Protein	Moisturizing, soothing	Dry skin creams, baby care	0.5–3%; allergen caution
Hydrolysed  Oats Protein	Soothing, hydrating	Sensitive skin, scalp	0.5–4%; gentle, cool-down
Hydrolysed  Pea Protein	Strengthens, volumizes	Vegan haircare	1–6%; plant-based option
Hydrolysed  Pearl Protein	Brightening, anti-aging	Luxury serums & masks	0.5–3% in cool-down
Hydrolysed  Quinoa Protein	Colour protection, UV support	Colour-treated hair	1–5%; protects vibrancy
Hydrolysed  Rice Protein	Adds volume, strengthens	Fine/limp hair	1–6%; lightweight
Hydrolysed  Sesame Protein	Nourishing, emollient	Dry/damaged hair, creams	0.5–4%
Hydrolysed  Silk Protein	Smoothness, shine, softness	Premium hair & skin	0.5–3%; tactile enhancer
Hydrolysed  Soy Protein	Strengthens, elasticity	Shampoos, creams (vegan)	0.5–5%; allergen label
Hydrolysed  Wheat Protein	Improves elasticity, reduces breakage	Hair & body care	0.5–5%; gluten caution
Peptide (Tripeptide) Copper	Collagen synthesis, wound healing, antioxidant	Anti-aging serums, hair regrowth	0.01–0.1%; avoid Vit C/chelators
Peptide Collagen (Plant-Based)	Firming, hydrating	Anti-aging serums, creams	0.2–2%; pH 4.5–6.5
Peptide Marine Collagen (Plant-Based)	Hydrating, plumping	Vegan serums, creams	0.2–2%; cool-down
Peptide Silk	Barrier support, smoothing	Premium creams, masks	0.2–1.5%; luxurious sensory

Formulation Guidelines & Best Practices

• Phase & Temperature: Add proteins/peptides in water or cool-down (<40°C).

• pH Range: 4.5–6.5 unless supplier specifies.

• Preservation: Always use a robust preservative system. Validate with challenge tests.

• Synergy: Combine with humectants (glycerine, panthenol, HA) + lipids to balance.

• Testing: Perform stability, compatibility, and microbial testing pre-launch.

Precautions & Tips

• Avoid Overload: Too much keratin/wheat can stiffen hair.

• Patch Testing: Especially important for allergenic proteins (egg, soy, milk, wheat).

• Copper Peptides: Avoid mixing with vitamin C/chelators in the same formula.

• Heat & pH Sensitivity: Stick to <40°C & pH 4.5–6.5.

• Labelling: Always declare allergenic sources.

FAQs

Q: Can I use multiple proteins in one formula?

A: Yes. Blend lightweight (rice/pea) with rich (keratin/silk). Keep total % balanced.

Q: Where should peptides be added?

A: Always in cool-down (<40°C), within pH 4.5–6.5.

Q: Are plant-based peptides as effective?

A: Many mimics natural peptides and are clinically backed. Select based on supplier data.

Q: What’s a safe copper peptide level?

A: Start 0.01–0.05%, max 0.1% depending on tolerance & claims.

Disclaimer

This guide is for educational purposes. Always follow manufacturer instructions, run stability + preservative challenge tests, and advise patch testing before commercial release.