Silkworm Cocoon Extract: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Silkworm Cocoon Extract?

Silkworm Cocoon Extract comes from the protective cocoon spun by the domesticated silkworm, Bombyx mori. The cocoon is mostly made of silk proteins like fibroin and sericin, along with smaller amounts of amino acids and trace minerals. People have prized silk for thousands of years because of its strength, softness and smooth feel. Those same qualities sparked interest among beauty formulators looking for gentle ingredients that hold water and leave skin feeling soft. To make the extract, cleaned cocoons are soaked in warm water or mild alkaline solutions to loosen the silk proteins. The liquid that carries those dissolved proteins is then filtered and concentrated, yielding a lightweight ingredient ready for creams and serums. Today Silkworm Cocoon Extract shows up in moisturizers, hydrating masks, anti aging lotions and leave-on treatments that aim to smooth the skin surface and boost moisture retention.

Silkworm Cocoon Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This extract serves mainly as a humectant, meaning it attracts water from the environment and helps bind that moisture to the skin. By drawing in and holding onto water, it supports a plump, supple look, reduces the appearance of fine lines and keeps formulas from drying out inside the jar.

Who Can Use Silkworm Cocoon Extract

Silkworm Cocoon Extract suits most skin types, including dry, normal and combination skin, thanks to its gentle water-binding nature. Oily or acne-prone users generally tolerate it well because the ingredient is lightweight and non-greasy, yet those who react easily to proteins may wish to proceed with caution. Since the extract is derived from silkworm cocoons it is not considered vegan friendly and may also be unsuitable for strict vegetarians who avoid animal-derived materials.

Current research shows no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Silkworm Cocoon Extract is applied topically, but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before introducing new skincare products just to be safe.

The extract does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not increase sun sensitivity or require special daylight precautions. It can pair well with most common skincare actives without known conflicts.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to Silkworm Cocoon Extract can differ. The following outlines potential side effects, yet most people will not experience them when using a properly formulated product.

  • Mild redness or itching in those with sensitivity to silk proteins
  • Contact dermatitis for individuals with a documented silk or insect allergy
  • Rare clogging or congestion if used in very heavy, occlusive formulas on oily skin

If any irritation or other unwanted reaction occurs, discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0–1

Silkworm Cocoon Extract contains mostly water-soluble silk proteins that sit lightly on the skin and rinse away easily, so it is unlikely to block pores. It lacks heavy oils or waxes that typically trigger congestion, which places it at the very low end of the comedogenic scale.

That makes the ingredient generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts, especially when used in lightweight formulas. If the extract appears inside a rich cream combined with thick occlusives, overall pore-clogging potential will depend on the full formula rather than the extract itself.

Summary

Silkworm Cocoon Extract acts mainly as a humectant, pulling moisture from the air and binding it to the top layers of skin. Its silk-derived proteins create a soft, flexible film that helps skin feel smoother and look plumper while keeping water inside the formula so products stay fresh.

The ingredient is a niche favorite rather than a mainstream staple, popping up in select hydrating serums, masks and lotions aimed at a silky skin finish.

Topical use is considered low risk with only rare reports of irritation in people sensitive to silk or insect proteins. Still, everyone’s skin is unique, so patch testing a new product containing Silkworm Cocoon Extract is a smart step before full-face application.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search