What it is
This ingredient is produced by hydrolyzing collagen together with soy protein and converting the resulting peptide mixture into its sodium salt, giving water-soluble fragments of varying molecular weight. In formulas it helps form a light surface film and binds water at the skin surface, contributing to a smoother feel and short-term conditioning. It is typically used at low levels as a supporting conditioning agent rather than a primary active.
Safety & warnings
Hydrolyzed proteins are generally well tolerated topically. Because this material contains soy-derived protein, individuals with known soy allergy may wish to exercise caution. Hydrolyzed proteins on the skin surface are not associated with comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Derived from a combination of animal-sourced collagen and plant-sourced soy protein, both broken down by hydrolysis and neutralized to the sodium salt.
Questions everyone asks
Is this ingredient vegan?
No. Although it contains soy protein, it also includes collagen, which is animal-derived, so it is not vegan.
What does it do in a sunscreen?
It acts as a skin-conditioning and film-forming agent, helping the product feel smoother and leave a light surface film; it is not a UV filter.