What Is Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract?
Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract is made from the umbilical cord of horses. The cord tissue is rich in proteins, amino acids and small natural sugars. When the material is broken down through hydrolysis, these large proteins are cut into smaller fragments called peptides that can more easily blend into skin care formulas.
The idea of using horse placenta and cord tissue started in spa treatments in parts of Europe and Asia several decades ago. Brands looking for novel animal derived actives then refined the process, choosing the umbilical cord because it contains growth factors and moisturizing elements similar to those naturally found in human skin. Over time the extract found its way into premium creams and masks that promise deep hydration and a youthful glow.
Manufacturers collect fresh, veterinary-inspected horse cords from approved farms. The cords are cleaned, minced and treated with either mild acid or special enzymes. This breaks the tissue into a liquid rich in peptides and sugars. The solution is filtered, concentrated and dried into a fine powder or left as a fluid concentrate ready to be mixed into cosmetic bases.
You will most often see Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract in anti-aging serums, sheet masks, rich night creams, eye treatments, recovery balms and some high-end moisturizers aimed at very dry or mature skin.
Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient delivers several skin friendly actions that make it popular in luxury formulas
- Humectant: draws water from the environment and the deeper layers of the skin to the surface so the complexion looks plump and feels comfortably hydrated
- Skin Conditioning: the mix of peptides and sugars helps smooth rough patches support a soft texture and promote a healthier looking barrier
- Emollient: forms a light film that locks in moisture reduces flaky spots and adds a silky finish without a greasy feel
Who Can Use Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract
Because it behaves as a humectant and light emollient, Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract suits most skin types. Dry, mature and dehydrated complexions tend to benefit the most thanks to the added moisture and barrier support. Normal and combination skin usually tolerate it without issue while oily skin can use it in lightweight formulas that do not add excessive shine. Those with a known sensitivity to animal proteins or extremely reactive skin may wish to proceed cautiously.
The ingredient is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians since it is sourced directly from horse tissue. Anyone following a plant-based or cruelty-free lifestyle will likely prefer a synthetic or botanical alternative that offers similar hydration without animal inputs.
Current research has not shown topical Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract to be harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding when included at customary cosmetic levels. That said this information is not medical advice. If you are pregnant or nursing consult your physician before adding any new skincare product just to be safe.
The extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and therefore does not increase the risk of sunburn. As with any ingredient of animal origin there is a minor chance of an immune reaction in individuals with specific allergies to equine proteins.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to the topical use of Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but not expected for the average user provided the product has been well formulated and preserved.
- Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness swelling and itching
- Hives or rash in individuals with sensitivity to horse proteins
- Mild stinging or warmth on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Breakouts in acne-prone users when the extract is blended into very rich bases
- Unpleasant odor if the product has been stored poorly leading to degradation
If you notice any of the above issues stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract is primarily a water-binding humectant with a light emollient effect and has no known fatty or waxy components that typically clog pores. Laboratory testing and anecdotal reports rarely link it to comedones when used at normal cosmetic levels. The main risk of breakouts tends to come from the richer creams or oils it is paired with, not the extract itself.
Suitable for acne-prone skin in lightweight or gel formulations, but users should watch the overall product texture and supporting ingredients.
Those with highly reactive or oily skin might prefer formulas where the extract appears low on the ingredient list to minimize any chance of congestion.
Summary
Hydrolyzed Horse Umbilical Extract works as a humectant, skin conditioner and mild emollient. Its small peptides and sugars pull moisture into the upper layers, smooth rough areas and leave a soft protective film that helps reinforce the skin barrier.
The ingredient has a niche following in high-end anti-aging and recovery products, especially in parts of Asia and Europe, but it remains far less common than plant-based hydrators due to sourcing limits and ethical concerns.
Topical use is generally considered safe at the concentrations found in cosmetics, with low comedogenicity and no links to photosensitivity. Still, individual allergies to animal proteins can occur. As with any new skincare addition perform a patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with it.