EWG Safety Score
What Is Hydrolyzed Extensin?
Hydrolyzed extensin is a hair- and skin-conditioning ingredient used in cosmetics. It's a plant-based derivative of extensin, hydroxyproline-rich structural glycoproteins that are found in plants' cell walls, that's broken down into smaller molecules through the process of hydrolysis.
When applied to skin, hydrolyzed extensin exhibits conditioning and hydrating properties through a reduction in transepidermal water loss. Currently, there's limited research on hydrolyzed extensin's skin benefits. Extensin is abundant in its amino acid and polysaccharide content; however, its star compound is the amino acid hydroxyproline, which is found in mammalian collagen.
Hydrolyzed extensin is commonly sourced from carrots, so it's been coined "carrot collagen," and sometimes is referred to as "vegetable collagen." (Note: there are many other plant-based ingredients that are also referred to as "vegetable collagen"). The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel reports usage of hydrolyzed extensin in cosmetics in amounts between 0.01-0.13%. These usage levels were deemed safe for use in cosmetics.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, August 2022, pages 5S-20S International Journal of Toxicology, 2022
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Journal of Physical Chemistry, August 2019, pages 7754-7763 Journal of Physical Chemistry, 2019
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Journal of the Korean Applied Science and Technology, June 2012, pages 257-267 Journal of the Korean Applied Science and Technology, 2012
From the Clinic
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Hydrolyzed Collagen
Collagen that’s been broken down into smaller segments Increases skin’s moisture levels
Hydrolyzed Egg Shell Membrane
Derived from the membrane lining egg shells
Hydrolyzed Elastin
Elastin that’s been separated into amino acids through hydrolysis Serves as a humectant, attracting water to skin
Hydrolyzed Grape Fruit Extract
A plant-derived humectant that draws moisture into the skin
Hydrolyzed Honey
A honey-derived humectant that draws moisture into the skin
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Hydrolyzed form of hyaluronic acid Has a lower molecular weight than hyaluronic acid
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