Evidence supporting the use of: Hydrolyzed keratin
For the health condition: Hair Care (general)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Hydrolyzed keratin is commonly used in hair care products due to its ability to temporarily improve the appearance and texture of hair. Scientific evidence suggests that hydrolyzed keratin, which consists of broken-down keratin proteins small enough to penetrate the hair shaft, can help fill in microscopic gaps in the cuticle layer of damaged hair. This leads to a smoother, shinier, and stronger appearance. Several in vitro and ex vivo studies have demonstrated that hydrolyzed keratin can enhance hair tensile strength, decrease breakage, and improve manageability (J Drugs Dermatol. 2012). The mechanism involves bonding to the hair surface and possibly penetrating the cortex to reinforce weakened areas. However, these effects are generally short-lived and last only until the next washing, as the proteins are washed away over time. There are few robust clinical trials in humans, and most of the supporting studies are sponsored by cosmetic ingredient manufacturers. While hydrolyzed keratin does not "repair" hair in the biological sense, it does provide a film-forming and strengthening effect that is scientifically plausible and supported by moderate in vitro evidence. Thus, its use in hair care is scientifically justified, but the evidence is of moderate quality and largely limited to laboratory and product-performance settings.

More about Hydrolyzed keratin
More about Hair Care (general)

Other health conditions supported by Hydrolyzed keratin

Hair (loss or thinning)
Hair Care (general)

Products containing Hydrolyzed keratin

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.