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:
Category | Ingredients |
---|---|
Humectants | Glycerin |
Hyaluronic Acid | |
Propylene Glycol | |
Emollients | Shea Butter |
Jojoba Oil | |
Squalane | |
Stabilizers | Phenoxyethanol |
Sodium Benzoate | |
Ethylhexylglycerin | |
Antioxidants | Vitamin E (Tocopherol) |
Green Tea Extract | |
Ferulic Acid | |
Surfactants | Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine | |
Decyl Glucoside |
4. Product Categories and Associated Ingredients
Product Category | Ingredients | Examples |
---|---|---|
Shampoos | Hydrolyzed Silk Protein, Sodium Cocoyl, Hydrolyzed Silk Protein, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycerin | CHI Keratin Silk Infusion, Schwarzkopf Gliss Kur Liquid Silk Shampoo |
Skin Care | Sericin, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, Phenoxyethanol | Tatcha The Silk Cream, Susanne Kaufmann Lifting Mask Line A |
Hair Straightening Products | Hydrolyzed Silk Protein, Keratin, Argan Oil | CHI Straight Guard, Aphogee Keratin And Green Tea Restructurizer |
Hair Coloring Products | Hydrolyzed Silk Protein, Amino Acids, Panthenol | Schwarzkopf Gliss Hair Repair Liquid Silk Express Repair Conditioner |
Frizz Control | Sericin, Jojoba Oil, Shea Butter | Ouidad Advanced Climate Control® Heat & Humidity Gel |
Anti-Aging Creams | Sericin, Retinol, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid | Alexandr&Co Seriguard Anti Aging Moisturizer, Biopelle Tensage Serum |
Moisturizers | Sericin, Glycerin, Squalane, Shea Butter | Tatcha The Silk Powder, Global Beauty Care Aqua Sleeping Mask + Hyaluronic Acid |
UV Creams | Sericin, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Vitamin E | Tatcha 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:
- Use appropriate pH buffers to maintain the formulation within sericin’s stable range (pH 4-8).
- Employ proper packaging to protect the product from UV light and oxidation.
- Carefully select compatible ingredients that won’t interact negatively with sericin.
- 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.