Silkworm Decapeptide-1
A cosmetic ingredient used as emulsion stabilising, film forming, humectant in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Silkworm Decapeptide-1 is a single chain peptide, obtained from the silkworm. The starting gene codes for Fibroin Heavy Chain, found in the silkworm. The parent protein contains a maximum of 5263 amino acids which may contain disulfide bonds and/or glycosylation, and consists of the proper sequence of the 20 standard amino acids.
What does it do?
Silkworm Decapeptide-1 is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Emulsion stabilising
stabilises emulsions of oil and water, preventing separation over time
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Film forming
forms a thin continuous film on skin, hair, or nails — used in long-wear makeup, sunscreens, and hairsprays
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Humectant
draws moisture from the air or deeper skin layers to the surface, helping skin retain water
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Skin protecting
helps shield skin from external environmental factors
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Skin conditioning - humectant
increases skin moisture by attracting water
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Skin conditioning - miscellaneous
improves skin condition through mechanisms not classified under the more specific emollient or humectant subcategories
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Surfactant
lowers surface tension, allowing oil and water to mix — the cleansing core of soaps and shampoos
EU regulatory status
Silkworm Decapeptide-1 is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Silkworm Decapeptide-1?
Silkworm Decapeptide-1 is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Silkworm Decapeptide-1 is a single chain peptide, obtained from the silkworm. The starting gene codes for Fibroin Heavy Chain, found in the silkworm. The parent protein contains a maximum of 5263 amino acids which may contain disulfide bonds and/or glycosylation, and consists of the proper sequence of the 20 standard amino acids.
Is Silkworm Decapeptide-1 allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Silkworm Decapeptide-1 is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Silkworm Decapeptide-1 do in cosmetic products?
Silkworm Decapeptide-1 is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: emulsion stabilising, film forming, humectant, skin protecting, skin conditioning - humectant, skin conditioning - miscellaneous, surfactant.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 07/08/2024