Hydrolyzed Rice Protein

Hydrolyzed rice protein (also known as rice protein hydrolysate) is typically categorized as a skin/hair conditioning agent, but research shows its benefits extend beyond that thanks to its antioxidant and peptide content. Furthermore, studies indicate this ingredient has potential for evening skin tone and helps to inhibit certain processes in skin that cause dehydration. It’s also worth noting that hydrolyzed rice protein is rich in amino acids.

Technically speaking, hydrolyzed rice protein is derived from rice grains that have undergone hydrolysis (chemically reacted) with an acid, enzyme or other methods. This ingredient can be “upcycled” as a byproduct of the rice production process.

Hydrolyzed rice protein was reaffirmed as a safe cosmetic ingredient in the 2006 Cosmetic Ingredient Review report. The noted concentrations levels of hydrolyzed rice protein at that time were between 0.1–2.0% but more recent usage levels suggested by cosmetic suppliers may be higher (up to 5% based on what we found.