sericin stability

Sericin Stability in Skincare and Haircare

Silk sericin, a protein derived from the silkworm Bombyx mori, has garnered significant attention in the skincare and haircare industries due to its unique properties. Known for its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and impressive moisturizing capabilities, sericin is a valuable ingredient in various cosmetic formulations. This blog delves into the stability of sericin in skincare and haircare products, highlighting its benefits and potential applications.

1. Introduction to Sericin

Sericin is a silk protein that envelops fibroin fibers in the silkworm cocoon. It is rich in amino acids such as serine, which contributes to its excellent moisturizing properties. The unique composition of sericin makes it an ideal ingredient for products aimed at improving skin hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance, as well as enhancing hair texture and strength.

2. Studies on Sericin Stability

Several studies have investigated the stability of sericin under various conditions:

  • Thermal Stability: Thermal analysis using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) has shown that sericin exhibits stability up to certain temperatures. Sericin films show exothermic peaks at 217°C and 310°C, indicating high thermal stability. Another study confirmed that sericin maintains its structural integrity up to 200°C, with significant degradation occurring beyond this point.
  • pH Stability: Sericin is stable within a pH range of 4 to 8, making it suitable for most skincare and haircare formulations. Extreme pH levels can lead to the degradation of sericin, thus formulations should be carefully designed to maintain an optimal pH.

3. Ingredients that Work Well with Sericin

Based on the analysis of various products containing sericin, hydrolyzed silk proteins, and silk amino acids, the following ingredients have been found to work well with sericin in different types of cosmetic products:

CategoryIngredients
HumectantsGlycerin
Hyaluronic Acid
Propylene Glycol
EmollientsShea Butter
Jojoba Oil
Squalane
StabilizersPhenoxyethanol
Sodium Benzoate
Ethylhexylglycerin
AntioxidantsVitamin E (Tocopherol)
Green Tea Extract
Ferulic Acid
SurfactantsSodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Decyl Glucoside

4. Product Categories and Associated Ingredients

Product CategoryIngredientsExamples
ShampoosHydrolyzed Silk Protein, Sodium Cocoyl, Hydrolyzed Silk Protein, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, GlycerinCHI Keratin Silk InfusionSchwarzkopf Gliss Kur Liquid Silk Shampoo
Skin CareSericin, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, PhenoxyethanolTatcha The Silk CreamSusanne Kaufmann Lifting Mask Line A
Hair Straightening ProductsHydrolyzed Silk Protein, Keratin, Argan OilCHI Straight GuardAphogee Keratin And Green Tea Restructurizer
Hair Coloring ProductsHydrolyzed Silk Protein, Amino Acids, PanthenolSchwarzkopf Gliss Hair Repair Liquid Silk Express Repair Conditioner
Frizz ControlSericin, Jojoba Oil, Shea ButterOuidad Advanced Climate Control® Heat & Humidity Gel
Anti-Aging CreamsSericin, Retinol, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic AcidAlexandr&Co Seriguard Anti Aging MoisturizerBiopelle Tensage Serum
MoisturizersSericin, Glycerin, Squalane, Shea ButterTatcha The Silk PowderGlobal Beauty Care Aqua Sleeping Mask + Hyaluronic Acid
UV CreamsSericin, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Vitamin ETatcha Luminous Deep Hydration Firming Eye Serum

Conclusion

From the wide range of use cases in skin and hair care, it is evident that sericin can be easily incorporated into various cosmetic formulations. To create a winning product with sericin, keep the following key points in mind:

  1. Use appropriate pH buffers to maintain the formulation within sericin’s stable range (pH 4-8).
  2. Employ proper packaging to protect the product from UV light and oxidation.
  3. Carefully select compatible ingredients that won’t interact negatively with sericin.
  4. Consider using stabilizing agents or crosslinking methods (like phytic acid) to improve sericin’s stability in certain formulations.

By adhering to these guidelines, cosmetic manufacturers can harness the full potential of sericin in their products, meeting the growing demand for effective and natural ingredients in skincare and haircare.We at Serione understand the challenges and opportunities in working with sericin. To support your product development journey, we offer a starter kit for you to experiment with these ideas. Reach out to us at [email protected] to learn more about how we can help you create innovative, sericin-based cosmetic products.

Reference Links:

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *