Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins

The document from 2017 provides a comprehensive review of the role of amino acids, peptides, and proteins in cosmetic science, focusing on their applications in skin and hair care products. It explains the chemistry of amino acids and their behavior in solutions, the structure and function of skin proteins like keratin, collagen, and elastin, and the importance of the natural moisturizing factor (NMF) in skin hydration. The review also discusses the commercial production of amino acids, their use as humectants, neutralizers, and antioxidants in cosmetics, and the skin-whitening properties of cysteine. It covers the development of amino acid derivatives for mild and sustainable cosmetic ingredients, the categorization and applications of peptides in antiaging and hair restoration, and the shift from animal-derived proteins to alternatives like hydrolyzed vegetable proteins and marine collagen. The document concludes by emphasizing the need for biocompatible and environmentally friendly personal care ingredients, driven by an aging population and the demand for effective products.