Keratin

Keratin (CAS 68238-35-7), also supplied as hydrolyzed keratin, is a fibrous structural protein derived from animal sources including wool, feathers, and hair. In personal care and industrial applications, it functions as a film-forming and moisturizing agent.

This protein bonds to hair and skin surfaces to restore and reinforce damaged protein structures. In hair care formulations like shampoos and conditioners, hydrolyzed keratin penetrates the hair shaft to reduce breakage and improve tensile strength.

It is a staple ingredient for professional salon and retail product lines. Skin care manufacturers incorporate it into creams and serums where it acts as a humectant, improving moisture retention and surface smoothness.

Nail care products use keratin to reinforce brittle nails by depositing a protective protein layer. Pharmaceutical and wound-care applications also draw on its film-forming properties to support tissue scaffolding and topical delivery systems.

Keratin is available as a liquid hydrolysate, spray-dried powder, and concentrated solution. Hydrolyzed grades are the most commercially prevalent for cosmetic formulation due to their solubility and ease of use.

Standard grades include cosmetic-grade and technical-grade, with molecular weight fractions tailored to penetration depth requirements. Protein content and degree of hydrolysis are the primary specification parameters buyers should confirm.