Hydroxypropyltrimonium Corn/Wheat/Soy Amino Acids
Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)
Hydroxypropyltrimonium Corn/Wheat/Soy Amino Acids, also known as hydrolyzed wheat protein, is an ingredient added to many cosmetic and skin care products. It is a product derived from corn, wheat and soy, as the name suggests. The amino acids derived from these sources are hydrolyzed, which means they are broken down into smaller units to be more easily absorbed by the skin. They are then chemically modified by the addition of a hydroxypropyltrimonium group, which makes the protein cationic, or positively charged. This allows them to bind better to hair and skin, which are usually negatively charged.
These amino acids are mainly used in hair care products such as shampoos, conditioners, hair masks and other hair styling products. Hydroxypropyltrimonium Corn/Wheat/Soy Amino Acids has many properties that make it particularly useful for these types of products. First, it increases the hair's ability to bind moisture, which improves its hydration and prevents drying and breakage. It also forms a protective film on the surface of the hair, which can help protect it from environmental damage or styling tools. In addition to hair care products, it can also appear in some skin products such as creams and lotions, where it can provide similar moisturizing and protective benefits.