A silkworm with its cocoon.
Silk amino acids, also known as silk protein or sericin, are the gelatinous proteins that bind silk filaments together. Protein is water soluble and can be found in liquid and powder form. These amino acids are used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products, including hair conditioners, hairsprays, and skin creams.
Acids are obtained from a silkworm cocoon by boiling it or pricking it with a needle. During the boiling process, the silk that forms the cocoon unwinds, allowing the silk threads and silk amino acid to be collected. Regardless of the method used, the silkworm dies in the process, which is why some animal rights groups condemn the process.
Silk cocoons.
Silk protein is often used in hair care products due to its ability to penetrate and strengthen damaged hair. The amino acids bind to the hair’s keratin, thus creating a protective layer that helps retain moisture while adding shine. Several commercial sprays use these amino acids to provide added protection and shine without weighing hair down.
Silk amino acids are often added to mascara as an eyelash conditioner.
Amino acids have a low molecular weight, which allows them to be easily absorbed by the skin. As with hair, the silk protein binds to the keratin found in the skin and creates a layer of defense against moisture loss. In addition, some studies have shown that the crystal structure of sericin offers some protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays. Silk amino acids have some antioxidant properties and have been shown to be effective in fighting wrinkles.
Silk amino acids can be found in hairspray.
In addition to its common use in ready-to-use cosmetics and beauty aids, liquid and powdered forms of silk amino acids are available for those interested in making their own personal care products. A community of avid homemade beauty product makers, with websites, blogs and chat rooms dedicated to recipes and methods, have embraced the substance’s versatility, moisture retention and smoothing abilities. For example, a few drops of liquid silk amino acids can be added to commercially manufactured mascara as a conditioning treatment for the eyelashes.
Some anti-wrinkle facial creams and lotions contain silk amino acids.
While liquid or power forms of sericin work well, hobbyists report that liquid aminos are generally easier to use for making lotions or creams. Silk’s energized amino acids can build up when added to finished compounds, a problem that can be easily avoided by using a liquid form. There are few substances in nature that can offer silk protein’s gentle moisture protection, antioxidant properties, and soft sheen.