Hydrolyzed Pea Protein at a Glance
- Emollient and hair conditioning agent
- Also functions as a surfactant
- Considered one of the more environmentally friendly surfactants
- Ruled safe as used in cosmetics
Hydrolyzed Pea Protein Description
Hydrolyzed pea protein is a natural emollient and hair conditioning agent in cosmetics. As the name suggests, it’s a product produced when protein extracted from peas is hydrolyzed, meaning that it has gone through a transformation breakdown using enzymes or water.
In addition to serving as an emollient, hydrolyzed pea protein also functions as a surfactant, meaning it captures dirt and permits it to be rinsed from skin. Because of its plant-based origins, hydrolyzed pea protein is considered one of the more environmentally friendly forms of surfactants used in cosmetics.
Hydrolyzed pea protein has been ruled safe in its current usage in hair and skin care. When used on its own, the typical concentration is 0.5–1.5%, depending on formulary needs.
Hydrolyzed Pea Protein References
International Journal of Toxicology, August 2022, pages 5S-20S
Journal of Surfactants and Detergents, July 2011, ePublication
Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, October 2001, pages 408-411pdf