Similar to the keratin naturally found in skin, hair, and nails, phytokeratin is a plant-based active ingredient highly valued in cosmetics. It can be found in a wide variety of products, under the INCI names "Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein" and "Hydrolyzed Sweet Almond Protein". Discover here in which types of treatments phytokeratin can be incorporated.
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- In which cosmetic products can one find phytokeratin?
In which cosmetic products can one find phytokeratin?
- Phytokeratin in Cosmetics: Which Products Contain It?
- Typology skincare incorporating phytokeratin
- Source
Phytokeratin in Cosmetics: Which Products Contain It?
Keratin is a fibrous protein that is essential for the mechanical strength of skin and hair. It is an integral part of a filamentous protein network that ensures the cohesion and integrity of epithelial tissues. The phytokeratin is a plant-based alternative to animal keratin that has a chemical structure and a sequence of amino acids similar to those of keratin. In cosmetics, phytokeratin, also known as vegetable keratin, is mainly used to control hair frizz, discipline it, and provide it with strength and shine. It also replicates the action of keratin and provides hydration, elasticity, and protection to the skin. These various benefits make it a component of several cosmetics.
Shampoos : Firstly, we find plant-based keratin in many shampoos, where its moisturizing properties play a crucial role in maintaining the hydrolipidic film of the scalp. This protective film, often weakened by certain surfactants present in the formulas, constitutes the first barrier against scalp dehydration and its sensitization by external pathogens.
Conditioners : As mentioned earlier, phytokeratin is not only beneficial to the scalp, but also to the entire hair. Indeed, by coating the hair fibers, it forms a protective barrier that shields them from external aggressions and reduces the risks of split ends and breakage. Moreover, plant keratin helps to smooth the cuticle, which allows the hair to reflect more light and thus enhances its shine. These various properties allow it to be incorporated into the formulation of different conditioners.
Heat-Protective Sprays : It is not uncommon to find phytokeratin in heat-protective sprays, products that, by forming a barrier between the hair and heat, reduce damage caused by heat-styling tools such as hair dryers, straighteners, or curling irons. Thanks to its ability to penetrate the hair fiber and strengthen the hydrolipidic film, phytokeratin helps to reduce the risk of damaging the hair fibers.
Serums, Hair Repair Masks : The various hair benefits of phytokeratin also make it a key ingredient in serums and hair masks. In these products, plant-based keratin plays a crucial role in filling in the discontinuities of the cuticle, thereby aiding in the repair of hair fibers weakened by daily stresses, whether they are mechanical (tight hairstyles, wind, friction...) or chemical (styling sprays, lacquers, dyes...).
Eyelash and Eyebrow Care : Eyelash and eyebrow treatments, whether they are serums or gels, leverage the strengthening virtues of phytokeratin to discipline them and provide resilience. Indeed, by mimicking the natural proteins of the hairs, it helps to reinforce the anchoring of the eyelashes and eyebrows, often weakened by daily makeup application and removal. Moreover, by hydrating them, plant keratin improves their flexibility and natural shine.
Creams, masks, moisturizing balms : Even though phytokeratin is primarily found in hair products, it can also be incorporated into certain cosmetics intended for the skin, particularly moisturizing treatments. This active ingredient can indeed contribute to maintaining skin hydration thanks to its water retention properties in the epidermal cells. In doing so, phytokeratin reduces insensible water loss (IWL) and gives the skin a softer and more supple touch.
Nail Serums : Nail serums also benefit from the properties of phytokeratin. Thanks to its structure, which is similar to the keratin in nails, it can act as a natural strengthener and improve the resilience of nails weakened by regular exposure to water and chemicals. Phytokeratin also helps to nourish and strengthen the natural keratin in nails, thereby reducing the risk of breakage, splitting, or flaking.
Typology skincare incorporating phytokeratin.
You can find phytokeratin in several of our products, among which are:
The hand & nail serum : Enriched with plant-based keratin and hyaluronic acid, this treatment containing 93% natural origin ingredients can be used daily to strengthen nails and also hydrate hands. This serum also contains biotin and panthenol, active ingredients with reparative properties.
The mascara serum : Formulated without silicone and mineral oil, this mascara serum strengthens the lashes due to its richness in castor oil and pea peptides. It provides a natural result, without a material effect, and can be applied in several layers for a customizable effect.
The eyebrow strengthening gel : Available in 3 shades with neutral undertones to suit all eyebrow colors, this tinted treatment is concentrated with peptides known for their strengthening properties and provides eyebrows with definition and volume, for a natural and adjustable result. It contains 98% naturally derived ingredients.
The dandruff treatment shampoo : This shampoo, containing piroctone olamine and jujube extract, reduces dandruff proliferation, soothes scalp irritations, and helps to normalize the desquamation process.
The densifying treatment shampoo : Thanks to its richness in caffeine and acetyl tetrapeptide-3, this 95% naturally derived treatment stimulates the micro-circulation of the scalp to promote hair growth. It also works to maximize the anchoring of hair fibers, with the aim of limiting their fall.
The repairing hair mask : In addition to phytokeratin, this hair mask contains biomimetic ceramides, active ingredients capable of integrating into the lipid cement of the hair fiber and restoring the cohesion of the cuticle. Split ends are thus filled in, and the hair appears less brittle, smoother, and shinier.
Source
VARMA G. & et al. Pharmaceutical & Cosmetic Applications of Keratin Protein Derived from Biowaste- A Review. American Journal of PharmTech Research (2018).
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