Hydrolyzed Rice Protein

What is it?

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein is protein from rice bran that has been modified to make it water soluble.

INCI

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein

Appearance

Thin brown liquid

Usage rate

1–5%

Texture

Thin, watery

Scent

Mild

Approximate Melting Point

Liquid at room temperature

pH

3–5

Charge

Hydrolyzed rice protein contains proteins with both cationic (positive) and anionic (negative) charges. This opposing charges help add volume to hair by repelling one another.

Solubility

Water

Why do we use it in formulations?

Hydrolyzed rice protein has been shown to be fantastic for increasing the volume of the hair, in addition to being a good moisturizer and film former. It is recommended for sensitive skin, and is a good hydrolyzed protein choice for anyone seeking a vegan, gluten-free option.

Do you need it?

No, but I sure like it!

Refined or unrefined?

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein only exists as a refined product.

Strengths

Hydrolyzed rice protein is an excellent volumizing ingredient for the hair and moisturizing ingredient for the skin.

Weaknesses

It’s one of the harder-to-find hydrolyzed protein.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Try other hydrolyzed proteins, like silk, oat, or quinoa..

How to Work with It

Include hydrolyzed rice protein in the water phase of your formulations; it should be added to the cool down phase or cold processed.

Storage & Shelf Life

Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein should last one year.

Tips, Tricks, and Quirks

It is also possible to purchase a quat (cationic quaternary ammonium compound) made from hydrolyzed rice protein; this isn’t the same thing, but it looks like a fun ingredient to play with!

Recommended starter amount

30mL (1fl oz)

Where to Buy it

 Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier.

Some Formulations that Use Hydrolyzed Rice Protein

Originally published on April 11, 2019