Hydrolyzed wheat protein

Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, also called Wheat Protein, Wheat Amino Acids, or Hydrolyzed Wheat Gluten, is a popular cosmetic protein used in haircare and skincare. It is gentle, strengthening, and moisturizing.

What Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Is

Wheat proteins, like gluten, are broken down through enzymatic hydrolysis into:

• Small peptides

• Amino acids

This makes them water-soluble, easy to add to formulas, and able to lightly penetrate the hair shaft.

Benefits for Hair

1. Strengthens hair – bonds to damaged areas of the hair and improves structure

2. Improves elasticity – helps hair stretch without breaking

3. Reduces breakage – protein fills tiny gaps in the hair cuticle

4. Boosts shine – smooth cuticles reflect more light

5. Adds volume – lightly plumps the hair shaft so hair feels fuller

6. Great for fine, limp, or weak hair – lightweight but strengthening

Typical Usage Rate

• Shampoo: 1–3%

• Rinse-out conditioner: 1–3%

• Hair mask: 2–5%

• Leave-in hair conditioner: 0.5–2%

Formulation Tip

• Add during the cool-down phase below 40°C

• High heat damages the protein

• pH-stable 4.0–7.0

Texture and Performance

Hydrolyzed wheat protein is known for:

• Lightweight feel

• Good slip

• Strong surface adherence

• Adds body and volume to hair without heaviness

• Great for natural hair, braids, relaxed hair, and curly hair