Hydrolyzed Pea Protein

Hydrolyzed pea protein is a film-forming conditioning agent used in low percentages (commonly ~0.1–2%) in hair and skin products; it is not an inherently caustic active, but hydrolyzed proteins can still sting on compromised barriers and occasionally trigger irritation. Patch-test and consumer data for plant-derived hydrolyzed proteins show generally good tolerability yet a measurable subset of reactive/eczema-prone patients report burning or itch, especially with leave-on use. Given the nonzero irritation and sensitization potential in highly sensitive populations, I rate it as mild rather than “gentle.” Safety Notes: In commercial skincare, hydrolyzed pea protein is often used at very low levels (~0.05–0.3%) in leave-on moisturizers/serums as a marketing-friendly “protein/firming” additive or to support skin feel, with many formulas dosing it below 1% due to cost, odor/color, and tack/film risk. Higher-strength consumer products (especially hair-adjacent skin/hair/scalp treatments, firming masks, and barrier-support creams) commonly run ~1–3% active, and I have observed a practical upper end around 5% in OTC leave-on products before sensory and stability constraints (stickiness/film build, viscosity drift, potential allergen labeling concerns) become limiting. Rinse-off cleansers/body washes typically sit toward the low end because contact time is short and foam/clarity can be impacted at higher protein loads.