Organic hair care's shining star: Hydrolyzed wheat protein
In the ever-growing market of hair care products, an increasing number of consumers are becoming more mindful about preserving the environment and practicing purposeful and ethical purchasing behavior. One ingredient that has gained popularity for its natural properties and sustainability credentials is hydrolyzed wheat protein.
Hydrolyzed wheat protein, derived from wheat through enzymatic or acid hydrolysis, is a plant-based, renewable ingredient widely used for its hair-strengthening and moisturizing properties[1][2]. Brands that prioritize the ethical sourcing of natural ingredients are finding themselves standing out in a crowded field.
Key ethical considerations for the sourcing of hydrolyzed wheat protein include responsible sourcing, sustainability in agriculture, transparency and traceability, and the use of organic wheat protein[2][4]. Brands committed to ethical sourcing often partner exclusively with suppliers who provide transparency about the ingredient origin and processing methods, ensuring ethical harvesting and minimizing exploitation[4].
Sustainable sourcing practices specifically for hydrolyzed wheat protein in hair care include selecting suppliers prioritizing organic or responsibly farmed wheat, ensuring hydrolysis and processing methods minimize chemical waste and energy consumption, and choosing suppliers that engage in fair trade or ethical labor practices[4].
One brand, Holy Curls, highlights its commitment to ethically harvested and processed plant proteins, including hydrolyzed wheat protein, integrating these principles into its product formulations for hair care[4]. Sustainable cosmetics often avoid harmful substances and use sulfate-free formulations to support environmental and consumer health[5].
Provital, a leading company in the cosmetics industry, has developed an active called Keraveg that repairs and rehydrates hair fibers for strong, shiny hair, using ethically sourced wheat[3]. Hydrolyzed proteins for hair swell the hair shaft to lock in moisture and volumize, while forming a protective film on the surface of the hair, creating a silky, shiny effect[1][6].
It is worth noting that the beauty market has a different safety standard for gluten-containing products compared to the health food market. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that hydrolyzed wheat protein and hydrolyzed wheat gluten will not elicit reactions in sensitized individuals[7].
Hydrolyzed wheat protein, also known as phytokeratine, has been used in beauty and personal care for several years[1]. Rich in amino acids, it is frequently found on the ingredients lists of organic beauty brands[8]. Additionally, the proteins in hydrolyzed wheat protein also serve to firm and tighten the skin, creating an anti-aging effect[6].
In conclusion, the ethical and sustainable sourcing of hydrolyzed wheat protein in hair care revolves around responsible agricultural practices, supplier transparency, organic farming options, and environmentally conscious processing to ensure the ingredient supports both human welfare and ecological sustainability[2][4][5]. As consumers become more conscious about the environmental impact of their purchases, the demand for natural, organic ingredients, including hydrolyzed wheat protein, is expected to continue growing.
References:
[1] Cosmetics Info. (2021). Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein. Retrieved from https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/hydrolyzed-wheat-protein
[2] Eco-Friendly Beauty Blog. (2020). Sustainable Sourcing of Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein. Retrieved from https://ecofriendlybeautyblog.com/sustainable-sourcing-of-hydrolyzed-wheat-protein/
[3] Provital. (2021). Keraveg. Retrieved from https://www.provital.com/en/technology/keraveg
[4] Holy Curls. (2021). Ethically Sourced Ingredients. Retrieved from https://holycurls.com/pages/ethically-sourced-ingredients
[5] Environmental Working Group. (2021). Sulfates. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/703133-SULFATES/
[6] Beauty Brains. (2019). Hydrolyzed wheat protein. Retrieved from https://beautybrains.com/hydrolyzed-wheat-protein/
[7] Cosmetic Ingredient Review. (2018). Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein and Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten. Retrieved from https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/2018-09/hydrolyzed-wheat-protein-and-hydrolyzed-wheat-gluten-final-report.pdf
[8] Truth in Aging. (2020). Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein. Retrieved from https://truthinaging.com/ingredients/hydrolyzed-wheat-protein/
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