Hydrolyzed silk

Hydrolyzed silk (CAS 96690-41-4), also marketed as Crosilk 10,000 and silk protein hydrolyzate, is produced by breaking down silk fibroin into low-molecular-weight peptides and amino acids. It functions as a film-forming humectant and surface-conditioning agent across personal care, textile, and pharmaceutical applications.

In hair and skin care formulations, it deposits a protective peptide film that improves moisture retention, combability, and surface feel. This makes it a preferred conditioning active in shampoos, serums, and leave-on treatments for professional and consumer markets.

Textile manufacturers apply it as a fiber-finishing agent to impart softness and improve the hand feel of fabrics without altering dye uptake. In leather processing, it is used in finishing formulations to enhance surface flexibility and appearance.

Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical producers incorporate it into oral and topical preparations where bioavailable amino acid delivery is required. The material is valued for its high purity and compatibility with various delivery systems and active ingredients.

Hydrolyzed silk is supplied primarily as an aqueous solution, with dry powder forms available for applications requiring lower water activity or extended shelf stability. This versatility allows for seamless integration into both liquid and solid product formats.

Standard grades include cosmetic-grade and technical-grade specifications, with molecular weight ranges typically defined by the supplier to suit specific formulation targets. Buyers should confirm molecular weight distribution and protein content against their requirements.

When evaluating sources, it is important to verify that the material meets necessary industry benchmarks. Quality control ensures that the protein hydrolyzate maintains consistent performance across different batches and manufacturing environments.