Definition of Hydrolysed Silk Proteins
Hydrolysed silk proteins are derived from the silk fibres of the Bombyx mori silkworm. These fibres are mainly composed of fibroin, a structural protein with remarkable mechanical properties. Hydrolysis of silk breaks down this protein into smaller peptides that are easily absorbed by the skin and hair, making it a popular ingredient in cosmetics for its moisturising, regenerating and protective properties.
Actions and Benefits of Hydrolysed Silk Proteins
Properties of Hydrolysed Silk Proteins: Improved Skin Elasticity
Hydrolysed silk proteins promote better skin elasticity thanks to their ability to penetrate the deeper layers of the epidermis. They strengthen skin tissue, contributing to more supple and firmer skin.
Property of Hydrolysed Silk Proteins: Wrinkle Reduction and Ageing Prevention
These proteins are also effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and preventing skin ageing by maintaining optimal skin hydration while stimulating cell regeneration.
Properties of Hydrolysed Silk Proteins: Hair Hydration and Shine
Thanks to their ability to retain water, hydrolysed silk proteins deeply moisturise the hair, making it softer and shinier. They also improve hair texture by reducing frizz and increasing the anti-static effect.
Properties of hydrolysed silk proteins: Healing properties
Peptides derived from silk proteins stimulate cell migration, promoting the repair of damaged skin tissue and accelerating wound healing.
Properties of Hydrolysed Silk Proteins: Hair Protection and Strengthening
Hydrolysed silk proteins form a protective film around the hair fibres, increasing their resistance to external aggressions such as heat and pollution. They also help to reduce hair breakage and maintain its structural integrity.
Clinical and Scientific Studies on Hydrolysed Silk Proteins
Studies have highlighted the many benefits of hydrolysed silk proteins for skin and hair. Research published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules has shown that sericin-based hydrogels improve skin elasticity and help prevent the signs of ageing. Another study, published in PLoS One, revealed that fibroin and sericin from silk promote cell migration, which is essential for tissue regeneration, making it a key ingredient for repairing skin. Furthermore, according to an article in the book ‘Active Ingredients and Additives in Cosmetology’, silk sericin is particularly effective at moisturising and protecting hair, increasing its shine while reducing the effects of static electricity.
Sourcing Hydrolysed Silk Proteins
Hydrolysed silk proteins come from Bombyx mori, mainly cultivated in China and Japan. These silkworms produce silk cocoons rich in fibroin and sericin, which are then hydrolysed to obtain soluble peptides used in high-end cosmetic products.
Fun facts about hydrolysed silk proteins
Silk has been used for thousands of years, not only in textiles but also in traditional Asian medicine for its healing and soothing properties. Today, scientific advances allow these properties to be fully exploited in skin and hair care products.
Hydrolysed Silk Proteins in our products
At Silkbiotic Laboratories, we incorporate hydrolysed silk proteins into our pillow mists. These natural ingredients prolong the diffusion of the mist for 7 to 8 hours.
Sources :
- Mandal BB, et al. Non-mulberry silk sericin/poly (vinyl alcohol) hydrogel matrices for potential biotechnological applications. Int J Biol Macromol (2011).
- Martínez-Mora C, et al. Fibroin and Sericin from Bombyx mori Silk Stimulate Cell Migration through Upregulation and Phosphorylation of c-Jun. PLoS One (2012).
- Martini MC and Seiller M. Actifs et et additifs en cosmetology. Editions Lavoisier Tec&Doc (2006).
• Padamwar MN and Pawar AP. Silk sericine and its application:a review. J Sci Ind Res (2004).
