What Is Hydrolyzed Horse Placenta/Umbilical Cord Lipids?
Hydrolyzed Horse Placenta/Umbilical Cord Lipids are skin-friendly fats obtained from horse placenta and umbilical cord after both materials have been broken down with water and enzymes. The hydrolysis step cuts large proteins into smaller fragments then the lipid portion is isolated. These lipids are mainly fatty acids, phospholipids and small amounts of cholesterol that are similar to the natural oils found in human skin.
Animal-based extracts have been used in beauty rituals for centuries and horse placenta gained attention in high-end Asian skincare in the early 2000s. As research grew, chemists refined gentle ways to separate the lipid fraction, giving formulators a stable ingredient that focuses on moisture and barrier support rather than growth factors or proteins.
The production process starts with carefully sourced placenta and cord tissue that is cleaned and screened for safety. The material is mixed with water and food-grade enzymes to complete hydrolysis. Lipids are then pulled out with food-approved solvents, purified, deodorized and blended into a liquid or powder that dissolves well in cosmetic bases.
You will most often find Hydrolyzed Horse Placenta/Umbilical Cord Lipids in rich moisturizers, barrier repair creams, night masks, anti aging serums, eye treatments and premium sheet masks where long-lasting hydration and skin comfort are selling points.
Hydrolyzed Horse Placenta/Umbilical Cord Lipids’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Below are the key ways this ingredient supports a formula
- Humectant: Attracts water from the environment and binds it to the upper layers of skin helping to keep skin plump and comfortable through the day
- Skin protecting: The lipid blend lays down a light shield that reduces moisture loss reinforces the skin barrier and cushions skin against dryness or environmental stress
Who Can Use Hydrolyzed Horse Placenta/Umbilical Cord Lipids
This lipid blend suits most skin types, especially dry, mature, sensitive and post-procedure skin that needs extra barrier support. Those with very oily or congestion-prone skin might find rich formulas containing it feel heavy and could prefer using it only at night or in rinse-off products.
Because the material comes directly from horse placenta and umbilical cord it is not appropriate for vegans or strict vegetarians. Brands that identify as cruelty-free should also confirm humane sourcing practices if they choose to use it.
Current safety data suggests topical use is generally well tolerated during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a doctor just to be on the safe side.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so there is no increased risk of photosensitivity. Standard daytime sun protection habits remain important for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Hydrolyzed Horse Placenta/Umbilical Cord Lipids vary between individuals. The points below outline potential reactions only and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly by the manufacturer.
- Allergic contact dermatitis – itching redness or rash in those sensitive to animal proteins even though the lipid fraction is highly purified
- Mild irritation – tingling warmth or temporary flushing on very reactive skin
- Breakouts – possible clogged pores or whiteheads on oily acne-prone skin if the formula is especially rich
- Unwanted odor – rare residual scent that some users may find unpleasant although most commercial grades are deodorized
If any discomfort swelling or persistent breakout occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5
The lipid mix is rich in essential fatty acids and sterols that mimic skin sebum so it spreads easily and locks in moisture. While these traits boost barrier repair they can mildly clog pores on oilier complexions, especially if the overall formula is thick or occlusive. The purification step removes most proteins that could trigger inflammation which keeps the rating lower than animal oils that are less refined.
Generally suitable for normal to dry or mature skin but those prone to frequent breakouts may prefer lighter products or spot use.
Because the ingredient comes blended into finished formulas the final comedogenic feel will depend on the whole recipe. Pairing it with non greasy emollients and oil-absorbing powders can offset any pore-clogging potential.
Summary
Hydrolyzed Horse Placenta/Umbilical Cord Lipids act as a humectant and skin protecting agent. They pull in water then form a flexible lipid shield that slows moisture loss and reinforces the natural barrier. This dual action leaves skin feeling plump comfortable and resilient.
The ingredient sits in a niche corner of premium skincare, mainly in Asian beauty lines focused on intensive hydration. It is not yet mainstream in western mass market products.
Current data shows topical use is safe for most people with low rates of irritation or allergy. Still it is best to try any new product on a small patch of skin first and watch for unwanted reactions before applying it more broadly.