Description

Hydrolyzed Cucumber Fruit is derived from the hydrolysis of the fruit of the cucumber plant (Cucumis sativus). This process breaks down the cucumber fruit into smaller, more easily absorbed components. The resulting extract is known for its hydrating, soothing, and refreshing properties, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products aimed at improving skin moisture and comfort.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The hydrolyzed extract contains:

Vitamins: Includes vitamins such as Vitamin C and Vitamin K, which contribute to skin health and antioxidant protection.
Minerals: Contains minerals like potassium and magnesium, which aid in skin hydration and nourishment.
Peptides: Contains peptides formed during hydrolysis that can help improve skin texture and support collagen production.
Natural Sugars: Includes sugars that enhance the extract’s hydrating properties.
Amino Acids: Contains amino acids that help support the skin’s barrier function and overall health.
The chemical structure includes vitamins, minerals, peptides, natural sugars, and amino acids.

Physical Properties

Appearance: Clear to slightly cloudy liquid with a pale yellow hue.
Odor: Mild, natural fragrance characteristic of cucumber.
Solubility: Fully miscible in water and can be incorporated into both aqueous and emulsion formulations.
Melting Point: Not applicable; the extract remains stable at room temperature.
Boiling Point: Not applicable; the extract is stable under standard conditions.

Production Process

Harvesting: Cucumbers are harvested from the cucumber plant.
Hydrolysis: The cucumber fruit is hydrolyzed using enzymatic or chemical processes to break it down into smaller molecules.
Filtration: The hydrolyzed extract is filtered to remove any solid residues.
Standardization: The extract is standardized to ensure consistent quality and efficacy.
Packaging: The extract is packaged in airtight containers to preserve its freshness and prevent contamination.

Applications

Cosmetic: Used in skincare products such as moisturizers, serums, and masks for its hydrating, soothing, and refreshing properties. Helps to improve skin moisture, comfort, and texture.
Pharmaceutical: May be included in pharmaceutical formulations for its hydrating and soothing benefits.
Food: Rarely used in food applications, but may be included in dietary supplements for its potential health benefits.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Biodegradability: The extract is biodegradable and environmentally friendly when handled properly.
Toxicity: Generally regarded as safe for topical use. However, it should be used according to established guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or skin irritations. People with allergies or very sensitive skin should exercise caution. It is important to ensure that the extract is sustainably sourced and free from contaminants.
Disposal: Should be disposed of according to local environmental regulations. Proper disposal methods should be followed to prevent environmental contamination.

INCI Functions:


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.

Skin protectant. It creates a protective barrier on the skin to defend it from harmful substances, irritants, allergens, pathogens that can cause various inflammatory conditions. These products can also improve the natural skin barrier and in most cases more than one is needed to achieve an effective result.
Synonyms:

CAS: 89998-01-6 EC number 289-738-4