Gelatin in Cosmetics and Personal Care

Gelatin and collagen-derived ingredients are used across a range of cosmetic, skincare, haircare and personal-care applications.

Gelatin and collagen peptides are related ingredients, but they are not the same. Gelatin is valued mainly for film formation and texture, while collagen peptides are used mainly for moisture binding and conditioning

Why is gelatin used in cosmetics?

Gelatin is a natural protein derived from collagen. Its film-forming and water-binding properties make it suitable for use in a variety of cosmetic and personal-care formulations.

It may be found in products such as:

  • face creams and lotions
  • masks and skincare products
  • shampoos and conditioners
  • hair styling products
  • bath and body products

Gelatin’s film-forming and water-binding properties help improve the smoothness and feel of skin, while contributing to the texture and moisture-retaining character of the formulation

In hair products, gelatin can add body and gloss and make hair easier to comb.

 Collagen peptides for beauty

Collagen peptides are produced through the further hydrolysis of collagen into much smaller peptide chains.

In topical cosmetic and personal-care formulations, collagen-derived ingredients may be used for their conditioning, and moisturising properties.

Collagen peptides are also widely used in nutricosmetics or “beauty-from-within” products – including powders, beverages and supplements designed to provide collagen peptides as part of the diet.

Topical cosmetic applications and orally consumed collagen peptide products are different uses and should be considered separately. Scientific evidence for one does not necessarily apply to the other.

Nutricosmetics

Collagen peptides are widely used in nutritional products positioned around skin, hair and beauty.

They can be incorporated into powders, drinks, capsules and other dietary formats, offering manufacturers considerable flexibility in developing beauty-from-within products.

Clinical studies, summarised in several systematic reviews, have reported improvements in hair, nails and skin hydration and elasticity with regular oral intake  [Sumida E et al. 2004, J Nutr Food 7:45-52].

Beautiful skin

In topical formulations, gelatin and collagen-derived ingredients can contribute to film formation, moisture retention and product texture.

The specific function will depend on the ingredient, concentration and overall formulation.

Volume and conditioning for hair

The film-forming characteristics of gelatin and collagen-derived ingredients can also make them useful in hair-care products.

Depending on the formulation, they may contribute to hair feel, manageability, body and the even distribution of other ingredients.

Gelatin and Collagen FAQ's
Gelatin Hair wash
Gelatin Hair wash
Collagen treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Both originate from collagen, but they undergo different degrees of processing.

Gelatin consists of larger protein chains and has characteristic gelling and film-forming properties, while collagen peptides are further hydrolysed into much smaller peptides.

Yes. Gelatin may be used in some cosmetics and personal-care formulations for properties including film formation, water-binding and texturising properties. Its use varies according to product type and formulation.

Gelatin is derived collagen found only in the connective tissues and bones of animals. Commercial gelatin is commonly produced from bovine or porcine sources, although gelatin can also be produced from fish and other sources.

The INCI name on a cosmetic label (Gelatin) does not indicate the animal source, so people who need to know, for religious, dietary or medical reasons, should ask the product manufacturer. Some gelatin is produced to halal or kosher certification.

In another important cosmetic application collagen peptides are combined with detergents, so-called surfactants, to produce shampoos as well as washing and shower creams. Collagen peptides are just as effective in this area because the hair is also composed of protein, and so it strengthens each hair shaft from within.

Collagen peptides develop a protective effect and lessen the adverse impact of damaging substances upon skin and hair.

At the same time, its film-building properties have a twofold effect during the washing process: the hair is coated with a film and thus thickened. The outcome: additional volume and suppleness.

Gelatin used in cosmetics and personal-care products may be derived from mammalian sources. However, the clinical significance of topical exposure is less well established than ingestion, and sensitivity varies between individuals. People with diagnosed alpha-gal syndrome should check ingredient sources and follow appropriate medical advice.

Learn more about alpha-gal syndrome, gelatin, collagen and cosmetics.

Ingredient source matters

Gelatin and collagen ingredients can be produced from different animal sources, most commonly bovine and porcine raw materials, as well as fish.

The biological source may be important for consumers because of dietary, cultural, religious or allergy considerations.

Manufacturers should therefore provide clear and accurate information about ingredient identity and source wherever appropriate.