Hydrolyzed Rhodophyceae Extract is derived from red algae (Rhodophyceae) through a hydrolysis process. This hydrolysate contains a range of bioactive components, including proteins, polysaccharides, and peptides, that are broken down into smaller, more readily absorbable molecules.
Chemical Composition and Structure:
Components:
Proteins and Peptides: Short-chain peptides and amino acids resulting from the hydrolysis of algal proteins.
Polysaccharides: Hydrolyzed algal polysaccharides, such as carrageenan and agar, which are broken into smaller fragments.
Minerals: Essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Structure:
Peptides: Amino acid sequences forming chains of varying lengths.
Polysaccharides: Smaller sugar molecules derived from the breakdown of larger carbohydrate polymers.
Physical Properties:
Appearance: The extract is typically a viscous, clear to slightly cloudy liquid or powder.
Odor: It has a mild, marine or seaweed-like scent.
Solubility: The hydrolyzed extract is generally soluble in water, making it suitable for use in aqueous formulations.
pH: The pH may vary depending on the specific hydrolysis process but is usually neutral to slightly acidic.
Production Process:
Harvesting: Red algae (Rhodophyceae) is collected from natural or cultivated sources.
Preparation: The algae are cleaned and processed to remove impurities.
Hydrolysis: The algae are subjected to hydrolysis using acid, enzyme, or other methods to break down the complex molecules into simpler forms.
Acid Hydrolysis: Uses acidic solutions to cleave protein and polysaccharide chains.
Enzyme Hydrolysis: Utilizes specific enzymes to break down proteins and polysaccharides into peptides and sugars.
Filtration: The hydrolyzed extract is filtered to remove undissolved particles.
Concentration: The extract may be concentrated to increase potency and reduce volume.
Standardization: The final product is standardized to ensure consistent quality and concentration of active ingredients.
Applications:
Skincare: Used in creams, serums, and masks for its moisturizing, soothing, and anti-aging properties. The peptides and polysaccharides can enhance skin hydration and elasticity.
Haircare: Included in shampoos and conditioners to improve hair texture, strengthen strands, and provide moisture.
Cosmetic Formulations: Commonly added to various cosmetic products to leverage its nourishing and skin-rejuvenating benefits.
Environmental and Safety Considerations:
Environmental Impact: Sustainable harvesting practices and eco-friendly processing methods are important to minimize environmental impact.
Safety: This ingredient is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used according to recommended guidelines. Individuals with specific sensitivities to marine-derived ingredients should exercise caution.
INCI:
Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.
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