Phytoprotein

Proteins have been part of hair and skin care for generations, but many classic ones come from animal sources. Phytoprotein is a water-soluble plant protein ingredient that gives brands a vegan route to the same smooth, conditioned feel in shampoos, masks, creams and serums.

Product data

Water-soluble. The exact INCI, plant source, protein content and recommended level are confirmed on the supplier CoA for each lot.

Plant proteins in cosmetics

Proteins from wheat, soy, rice, pea, oat and other plants are used whole or hydrolyzed into smaller fragments. Smaller fragments are associated with moisture and a light feel, larger ones with film-forming and body. The CoA tells you which type and size you have.

Product formats

Protein shampoo

A gentle shampoo that leaves hair feeling soft.

Conditioner

Rinse-off care for smooth lengths.

Hair mask

A weekly mask for dry or damaged-feeling hair.

Face cream

A smoothing cream with a light film.

Serum

A light serum for a soft, smooth feel.

Formulating guidance

Add the protein to the water phase, preferably during cool-down, and record the pH. Pair it with D-Panthenol for moisture, IO Conditioning Honey Derivative for conditioning in hair products and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid in skin care. More ingredients are listed under actives.

Claims

Use cosmetic wording such as smoother, softer, stronger-feeling hair and soft, smooth skin. Support numbers with combing tests or panel assessments.

Vegan and allergen labeling

Plant proteins support vegan claims if the CoA confirms plant origin and no animal-derived processing aids. Some sources, such as wheat or soy, may need allergen consideration in your market. Check local rules.

Who the products are for

Vegan and natural brands, customers with dry or fine hair, and anyone who wants a protein product without animal ingredients.

Odor and color

Protein ingredients can carry a slight natural odor and color. Check the finished product and adjust fragrance if needed.

Combining proteins

Plant proteins combine well with amino acids and humectants. Test different levels on tresses to avoid a stiff feel on fine hair.

Testing

Run stability at room temperature and 40 °C, checking pH, viscosity, odor and appearance.

Packaging

Bottles for shampoos and conditioners, jars for masks, pumps for creams.

Batch quality

Keep the CoA for each lot, compare appearance and odor on arrival and store retained samples.

Range planning

A shampoo, a conditioner and a mask form a vegan protein line.

Preservation

Proteins can be food for microbes. Use a robust preservative system and confirm with a challenge test.

Original recipe: vegan protein conditioner, 100 g

Phase A: water 82.20 g, glycerin 2.00 g, hydroxyethylcellulose 0.30 g. Phase B: cetearyl alcohol 6.00 g, behentrimonium chloride 2.50 g, sunflower seed oil 1.50 g. Heat An and B to 75 °C, combine and cool. Phase C below 40 °C: Phytoprotein 3.00 g as an example level per CoA, panthenol 0.50 g, preservative 1.00 g, fragrance 0.50 g, lactic acid solution 0.50 g. Adjust pH to about 4.5.

Skin care detail

In creams and serums, plant proteins leave a soft, smooth film that customers often describe as a silky finish. Add the protein during cool-down and test the after-feel at five minutes. Combined with humectants, it supports a hydration and smoothness story in light daily products.

Fine hair

Fine hair can feel stiff with too much protein. Offer a lighter version with a lower level and more humectants for this group.

Storage

Store the container closed in a cool, dry place.