Keratin Amino Acids are primarily used in the hair care industry to repair damage, improve moisture retention, and reduce hair fall. For the skin, it acts as a humectant - helping retain water and providing a conditioning effect. They are so powerful because they mimic the natural keratin present in the human body - which forms the main components of hair, skin, and nails. However, unlike whole keratin, Keratin Amino Acids are smaller and can easily penetrate the hair or skin, enhancing their potency. In its raw form, it appears as a dark amber liquid that is water-soluble and has a faint odor. Keratin Amino Acids are commonly found in shampoos, conditioners, hair treatments, styling products, body lotions, moisturizers, toners, and foundations.
Products with KERATIN AMINO ACIDS
With samples available
Amino Keratin
by Brenntag Beauty & Personal Care
- Sustainable option
- Support available
- Original documents
Amino Kera NPNF®
by TRI-K Industries (Galaxy Group)
Cosroma® TLJ003
by Cosroma
What is KERATIN AMINO ACIDS used for?
Keratin Amino Acids are small-sized protein sources that penetrate easily into the hair and skin - providing restorative and conditioning benefits.
In hair care: Keratin Amino Acids reinforces the hair shaft by replenishing amino acids lost due to heat styling, chemical treatments, or UV damage. It improves the hair’s ability to retain water, preventing dryness and brittleness. It also reduces frizz and breakage - enhancing smoothness and shine.
In skin care: Keratin Amino Acids draw moisture to the surface of the skin and support suppleness. They strengthen the skin’s barrier and treat rough or dry patches - enhancing the overall skin texture. By improving elasticity and hydration, Keratin Amino Acids can provide anti-aging benefits to the skin and lead to a healthy-looking, plumper skin.
Origin
Keratin Amino Acids primarily come from sheep’s wool but can be plant-derived (from wheat, rice, corn, or soy). Although safer, plant-derived Keratin Amino Acids are not as strong or effective as their animal-derived counterpart. The raw material is first collected and cleaned. It then undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis, which breaks keratin protein into smaller peptides and amino acids. An alternative to this is using strong acids or bases to break down the keratin. This is harsher but cost-effective. The final ingredient is purified, dried, and standardized.
What does KERATIN AMINO ACIDS do in a formulation?
ANTISTATIC|
HAIR CONDITIONING|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
HUMECTANT|
HAIR FIXINGSafety Profile
Keratin Amino Acids are safe and well-tolerated within the recommended concentration range of 0.5-2%. It is non-carcinogenic, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic. However, animal-derived Keratin Amino Acids may cause allergic reactions if not refined thoroughly. Patch tests are recommended prior to full application of products containing this ingredient.
KERATIN AMINO ACIDS alternatives
KERATIN AMINO ACIDS technical profile
| Property | Values |
pH | 4.5 - 6.5 |
Solubility | Freely soluble in water |
Viscosity | Low to medium |