Ingredients derived from ‘superfood’ sources have become increasingly popular and the number of personal care products with claims focused on superfood connotations have more than doubled in the last few years [1]. Capitalizing on this trend, Croda has developed Hydroastivum P and Crodasone P, two new biopolymers that provide functional benefits to final products. Both ingredients are derived from pisum sativum or ‘pea’ which is popular for its high protein content, unique assortment of phyto-nutrients and antioxidant properties.

Active proteins from superfoods

In personal care applications, Pisum sativum provides a rich source of amino acids,” says the company. In particular, Hydrosativum P and Crodasone P contain high levels of glutamic acid, aspartic acid, argenine and lysine.

Hydrosativum P is a new generation highly moisture retentive biopolymer

Proteins adsorb readily onto the surface of skin and hair and are generally hygroscopic, meaning they attract water molecules from the air to act as humectants. Traditionally, hydrolysed proteins such as wheat and silk have been used to impart moisture and conditioning properties to the hair and skin.

Hydrosativum P is a new generation highly moisture retentive biopolymer. According to Croda, it exhibits “powerful moisturisation properties in hair and skin care formulations.” Hydrosativum P has additional anti-irritancy properties ideal for skin and scalp care.

Crodasone P is a copolymer designed to defend hair cuticles from heat and styling damage. Due to its complex polymeric structure, Crodasone P cross-links on drying to form a conditioning and protective network. “Studies have shown that Crodasone P can reduce thermal cracking by 49% in an aqueous spray and 38% in a conditioner system,Croda claims.

Crodasone P is a copolymer designed to defend hair cuticles from heat and styling damage

Crodasone P is ideally suited to leave-on styling products or conditioners claiming heat defence but Croda says it can also be used in rinse-off applications to defend the cuticles from damage caused during styling.

Superfood Formulations

To illustrate how these ingredients can meet the market needs, Croda has developed a range of formulations packed full of superfoods, such as the “Super Satin Cooling Lotion”, a cooling skin moisturiser that contains Hydrosativum P and blueberry extract, or the “Scoopable Hair Souffle”, a nourishing hair mask with a novel texture that contains Crodasone P for cuticle protection, Hydrosativum P to lavish the hair and scalp with moisture and is packed full of superfoods including pomegranate, apple and blueberry.