Hydrolyzed keratin
Synopsis of Hydrolyzed keratin
History
Hydrolyzed keratin, a protein derived from the breakdown of natural keratin found in hair, wool, and feathers, has a notable history in medicinal and nutritional applications. Traditionally, keratin-rich substances were employed in various folk remedies across cultures, particularly in Asia and Europe, where broths and herbal tonics included animal-derived proteins to support overall vitality, skin health, and wound healing. These practices recognized the restorative potential of protein-rich components, even before the science of hydrolysis and protein supplementation was fully understood.
With advancements in biochemistry, hydrolyzed keratin became valued for its bioavailability—the hydrolysis process breaks large protein molecules into smaller peptides and amino acids, making them easier for the human body to absorb and utilize. This enhanced form has been incorporated into nutritional supplements aimed at promoting hair, skin, and nail health, as well as supporting joint and connective tissue function. Historical remedies often combined keratin sources with herbal ingredients such as horsetail, nettle, and burdock root, leveraging their synergistic effects to enhance tissue repair and resilience.
In modern herbal formulations, hydrolyzed keratin continues to be paired with botanicals renowned for their nourishing and restorative properties. These combinations are praised for their holistic approach, addressing both structural and metabolic needs of the body. The enduring use of hydrolyzed keratin in these contexts highlights its positive contribution to natural medicine, offering a bridge between traditional wisdom and contemporary nutritional science.
Traditional and scientific validation
Hydrolyzed keratin, derived from the breakdown of keratin proteins typically sourced from wool, feathers, or hair, has a longstanding history in both cosmetic and nutritional applications. Traditionally recognized for its role in hair and skin care products due to its structural similarity to human keratin, hydrolyzed keratin is now increasingly incorporated into nutritional supplements. The rationale behind its use lies in its rich composition of amino acids, particularly cysteine, which is essential for the synthesis of keratin in the body and supports the health of hair, skin, and nails.
Scientific exploration into the dietary benefits of hydrolyzed keratin is still emerging. Preliminary studies suggest that oral supplementation may improve hair strength, reduce hair loss, and support nail integrity. For instance, a 2014 randomized controlled trial found that participants taking a keratin-based supplement experienced improvements in hair luster and strength compared to placebo. Additionally, hydrolyzed keratin is considered highly bioavailable due to its broken-down peptide structure, facilitating efficient absorption and utilization by the body.
Despite promising early findings, the body of clinical evidence remains limited, and larger, long-term trials are needed to fully validate the efficacy and safety of hydrolyzed keratin as a nutritional supplement. Nonetheless, its high protein content and unique amino acid profile position it as a potentially valuable ingredient for supporting structural protein synthesis. As research progresses, hydrolyzed keratin may further establish its role in promoting healthy hair, skin, and nails from within.
Hydrolyzed keratin is used for these health conditions
Hair (loss or thinning) (Scientific)
Hair Care (general) (Scientific)
Hydrolyzed keratin is used to support these body systems
Hair (Scientific)