What Is Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein?
Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein is a plant based ingredient created by joining small fragments of corn protein, called peptides, with undecylenic acid then neutralizing the mixture with potassium. The result is a water soluble potassium salt that combines the conditioning qualities of protein with the surface activity of a fatty acid. This hybrid structure lets it cling lightly to skin and hair, forming a flexible film that smooths and protects.
Corn protein itself has been used in hair and skin care since the 1960s for its softening effect. In the early 2000s formulators began linking these proteins to fatty acids to give them extra slip and mild antimicrobial properties. Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein grew out of that work as brands searched for more naturally sourced functional ingredients that could replace synthetic quats and silicones.
Making the ingredient starts with food grade corn. The protein is broken down with enzymes and water to create short peptide chains. These peptides react with undecylenic acid chloride, a derivative of castor oil, forming a stable amide bond. A final neutralization step with potassium hydroxide yields the mild potassium salt that is shipped as a clear to pale yellow liquid.
You will most often see Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein in face masks, daily moisturizers, anti aging serums, leave in hair conditioners, curl creams, styling gels and light emulsions that need extra stability without heaviness.
Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators turn to this multifunctional ingredient for several practical reasons
- Emulsion stabilising – helps oil and water stay blended so creams remain smooth during shelf life and feel consistent when applied
- Hair conditioning – deposits a thin protein film along the hair shaft that boosts softness, reduces frizz and adds a light touch of hold without buildup
- Skin conditioning – forms a breathable film on the skin surface that improves moisture retention, leaves a silky after feel and can soften the look of fine lines
Who Can Use Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by all skin types, from dry to oily and even sensitive, because it forms a light breathable film rather than a heavy occlusive layer. People with very oily or acne-prone skin usually find it comfortable since it is water soluble and rinses clean without clogging pores. The main group that may need caution is anyone with a known corn allergy, as trace protein fragments could trigger a reaction.
Because it is produced entirely from plant sources—corn protein and castor-derived undecylenic acid—Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived raw materials or by-products are used during its manufacture.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women can typically use products containing this ingredient without concern, as it stays on the outer layers of skin and hair and is not known to penetrate or reach the bloodstream. That said this is not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new cosmetics to their routine just to be safe.
The molecule is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it does not make skin more reactive to sunlight. Users should of course still apply daily sunscreen as part of good skincare practice. Those who follow a protein-free hair routine may wish to limit leave-in products with this ingredient since excess protein can leave some hair types feeling stiff.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging in sensitive individuals
- Contact dermatitis in people with a confirmed corn allergy
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Temporary hair stiffness or dryness in users who are protein sensitive
If you notice any of these issues while using the ingredient or a product that contains it, stop use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 (low)
Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein is mostly water soluble and forms a very thin, breathable film rather than a heavy greasy layer. Its fatty acid portion is largely neutralized and bound to peptide fragments, which limits any pore clogging potential. Because it rinses off easily and does not accumulate on skin, the likelihood of blocked pores is minimal.
In short, this ingredient is usually suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, though the overall formula it sits in still matters.
Summary
Potassium Undecylenoyl Hydrolyzed Corn Protein works as an emulsion stabilizer, skin conditioner and hair conditioner. The peptide part grips onto hair and skin surfaces to create a flexible film that smooths, softens and helps lock in light moisture while the attached fatty chain adds slip and mild antimicrobial support, all without the weight of traditional oils or silicones.
The ingredient is still considered niche, showing up most often in eco focused skincare and lightweight hair care, but its plant based origin and multifunctionality are making it steadily more popular with formulators.
Overall safety is high, with low irritation and comedogenic risk for the average user. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to run a quick patch test when trying a fresh product just to be on the safe side.