Ingredient review
Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein
INCI: Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein
A mild, amino-acid-based cleanser that cleans without stripping the skin barrier.
In plain English
This ingredient is a gentle cleansing agent made by combining corn protein with a fatty acid derived from castor oil. It helps remove dirt and oil from skin and hair without causing dryness or irritation, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin and baby products.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A semi-synthetic surfactant created by reacting hydrolyzed corn protein with undecylenic acid (from castor oil) and neutralizing it with potassium. It belongs to the family of amino-acid-based cleansers known for their mildness.
How it works
It works by lowering the surface tension between water and oils, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Its protein structure also helps it bind to skin and hair, leaving a soft, conditioned feel without heavy residue.
Pros
Ultra-gentle cleansing
Cleans effectively without disrupting the skin barrier, making it ideal for daily use on sensitive or dry skin.
Conditioning effect
Leaves skin and hair feeling soft and smooth after rinsing, reducing the need for additional moisturizers.
Cons and cautions
Lower foam volume
Produces a modest lather compared to sulfates, which may feel less satisfying to those who prefer rich foam.
Higher cost
Formulations with this ingredient are often pricier due to its specialized production process.
Best for
- People with dry or sensitive skin
- Those looking for sulfate-free cleansers
- Parents choosing mild baby washes
Use caution if
- Individuals with known corn allergies (rare)
- Those seeking very high-foaming cleansers
Usage tips
Safety summary
Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein is widely regarded as safe for topical use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic concentrations.
Research notes
Amino-acid-based surfactants like this one are well-documented in cosmetic science for their mildness and skin compatibility. While specific studies on this exact ingredient are limited, the broader class is supported by dermatological literature as safe and effective for sensitive skin.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Facial cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Baby care
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant sources (corn and castor oil) and considered biodegradable, making it a more eco-friendly choice compared to some petroleum-based surfactants.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the top of ingredient lists in sulfate-free cleansers.
- It is compatible with a wide pH range (5.5–7.0), making it easy to formulate gentle cleansers.
Common questions
What is Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein in beauty products?
This ingredient is a gentle cleansing agent made by combining corn protein with a fatty acid derived from castor oil. It helps remove dirt and oil from skin and hair without causing dryness or irritation, making it a popular choice for sensitive skin and baby products.
What does Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein do in a beauty product?
It works by lowering the surface tension between water and oils, allowing impurities to be rinsed away. Its protein structure also helps it bind to skin and hair, leaving a soft, conditioned feel without heavy residue.
Is Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein safe for most people?
Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein is widely regarded as safe for topical use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic concentrations.
Who should be careful with Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein?
Individuals with known corn allergies (rare) Those seeking very high-foaming cleansers
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.