keratin hydrolysate

Keratin hydrolysate is a mixture of low-molecular-weight peptides and free amino acids (such as cysteine, proline, and glycine) produced through the chemical, enzymatic, or microbial hydrolysis of keratin-rich biomass, including poultry feathers, sheep wool, and hair waste. In the pharmaceutical and nutricosmetic sectors, it is utilized for its antioxidant, cytoprotective, and anti-aging properties. It has been shown to promote primary human dermal fibroblast activity, enhance the release of glycosaminoglycans and hyaluronan, and protect against oxidative stress-related damage. Clinical studies have evaluated its efficacy as an oral supplement for improving skin roughness, wrinkles, and hydration, as well as hair and nail health. Beyond human health, keratin hydrolysate is investigated for veterinary anti-aging applications, tissue regeneration scaffolds, and as a sustainable biostimulant in agriculture to enhance crop growth and soil fertility. It also finds use in industrial processes such as leather manufacturing (as a chrome exhaust aid and filler) and detergent formulations.

Brand names

Kera-Diet

Other names

keratin hydrolysatefeather keratin hydrolysateFKHbioactive keratin hydrolysateBKHkeratin-derived hydrolysate