What Is Hydrolyzed Horse Amnion/Placenta/Umbilical Extract?
Hydrolyzed Horse Amnion/Placenta/Umbilical Extract is a protein-rich blend obtained from the amniotic membrane, placenta and umbilical cord of horses. These tissues are naturally packed with amino acids, peptides and skin-friendly sugars that help bind water and support the skin’s barrier. Originally, placental extracts gained attention in Asian beauty products in the 1960s for their rejuvenating feel. Over time chemists learned to break the large proteins into smaller, more skin-compatible fragments through hydrolysis, where acid or enzymes chop the material into tiny pieces that dissolve easily in water-based formulas. After careful cleaning and sterilizing, the tissues are hydrolyzed, filtered and dried into a fine powder or fluid concentrate that can be blended into cosmetics. You will most often spot this ingredient in sheet masks, anti-aging serums, rich creams, specialty eye treatments, post-procedure soothing gels and premium hair conditioners.
Hydrolyzed Horse Amnion/Placenta/Umbilical Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient brings several helpful properties to skin and hair care formulas:
- Humectant – draws moisture from the environment and holds it at the surface of the skin, giving an immediate plumping and softening effect
- Skin Conditioning – supplies peptides and amino acids that can smooth rough texture, improve flexibility and leave skin looking fresher and more supple
- Emollient – forms a light, breathable film that reduces transepidermal water loss so skin stays comfortable and less prone to flaking
Who Can Use Hydrolyzed Horse Amnion/Placenta/Umbilical Extract
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by normal, dry, combination, mature and dehydrated skin because of its strong water-binding ability and light emollient feel. People with very oily or congestion-prone skin may want to choose lighter formulations since rich creams that contain the extract could feel heavy or contribute to surface grease.
Because it is sourced from horse tissues it is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians who avoid animal-derived ingredients.
No data suggests that topical use poses a unique risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should discuss any new skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider first to be safe.
The extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitizing. Those who have religious or personal concerns about animal products should also take this into account when deciding whether to use it.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical use of Hydrolyzed Horse Amnion/Placenta/Umbilical Extract can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues and are not expected to be the typical experience for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Allergic reaction – rare immune response leading to redness, itching or swelling
- Skin irritation – tingling, burning or mild rash in sensitive individuals
- Breakouts – heavy formulations containing the extract may clog pores in very oily or acne-prone skin
- Contact dermatitis – inflammation triggered by sensitivity to any residual processing agents or preservatives used alongside the extract
- Contamination risk – if the raw material is not thoroughly purified there is a theoretical chance of microbial or prion contamination, though reputable manufacturers follow strict safety protocols
If you notice any negative reaction stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Hydrolyzed Horse Amnion/Placenta/Umbilical Extract is made up of small, water soluble peptides and amino acids that rinse away easily and do not normally settle inside pores. On its own it has little potential to block follicles, which is why it earns a low score. It is usually blended into serums, gels or light creams rather than heavy butters, further reducing clogging risk. Those prone to acne or breakouts can generally use products containing this ingredient without much worry, provided the overall formula is lightweight. As always the full product texture, the presence of richer oils or waxes and individual skin response matter more than the extract itself.
Summary
Hydrolyzed Horse Amnion/Placenta/Umbilical Extract acts as a humectant, skin conditioner and mild emollient. Its broken down proteins attract moisture to the surface, its amino acids feed the skin barrier so texture feels smoother and its light film limits water loss so skin stays supple. Although packed with useful nutrients it remains a niche ingredient seen mostly in high end Asian beauty masks, boutique anti aging serums and post procedure soothing gels rather than mass market lines. Safety data show it is well tolerated when properly processed and preserved, with low rates of irritation or allergy, but because it is animal derived people with ethical concerns may opt out. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to perform a quick patch test before full use to confirm your skin agrees with it.