Combining Collagen and Keratin in Shampoo

Yes, it is possible to use collagen and keratin together in a herbal shampoo formulation. Both ingredients are proteins that are beneficial for hair, helping to restore and protect damaged strands.

• Keratin, a key structural protein of hair, helps to strengthen the hair shaft, reduce breakage, and improve elasticity. Products like Pure Keratin™ and Hydrolyzed Keratin (Liquid, Deodorized) are designed to penetrate the hair and provide these benefits. KeraQuat™ is a positively charged keratin that adheres well to hair, even in rinse-off products.
• Collagen, another protein, can help to moisturize and smooth the hair cuticle, adding shine and reducing frizz. Hair Collagen (Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Collagen) is a positively charged collagen designed for use in shampoos and conditioners.

When combining these ingredients in a shampoo, the primary consideration is the compatibility with the surfactant system used in the shampoo base. Some forms of hydrolyzed collagen and keratin, particularly those that are positively charged (cationic) like Hair Collagen and KeraQuat™, may not be compatible with anionic detergents commonly found in many shampoos. Using cationic ingredients with anionic detergents can lead to precipitation or reduced effectiveness.

Therefore, if you plan to use cationic forms of collagen and keratin, it is recommended to use a shampoo base that utilizes non-ionic or amphoteric surfactants instead of anionic ones to ensure stability and performance of the formulation. Herbal extracts themselves are generally compatible with these protein ingredients.

In summary, collagen and keratin can be effectively combined in a shampoo, provided the formulation considers the compatibility of the protein types with the chosen surfactant system.