Serralysin ●
TL;DR. This ingredient functions as a proteolytic enzyme, used mainly for enzymatic exfoliation and smoothing by breaking down surface proteins on the skin. It may also appear in cleansing or scalp-care products for residue removal.
What does Serralysin do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient functions as a proteolytic enzyme, used mainly for enzymatic exfoliation and smoothing by breaking down surface proteins on the skin. It may also appear in cleansing or scalp-care products for residue removal.
Is Serralysin clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, this ingredient is not a typical restricted-list material, but enzymes can be sensitizing or irritating, especially in leave-on products or powders that can be inhaled. It fits better in controlled-use formulas where activity, dose, and exposure are tightly managed.
Is Serralysin sustainable?
This ingredient is typically made by microbial fermentation, followed by purification and stabilization. As a protein, it is expected to biodegrade and is not associated with persistence or bioaccumulation concerns.
Is Serralysin COSMOS-approved?
COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic standards generally allow fermentation-derived enzymes when non-GMO and processing requirements are met, so supplier documentation is important. It aligns reasonably with Green Chemistry because it is bio-derived, active at low levels, and biodegradable, though purification and stabilizer choices affect the final profile.
How does Serralysin work chemically?
The molecule is a zinc-dependent protease that hydrolyzes peptide bonds, so formula performance depends on water activity, pH, temperature, and the presence of chelators or denaturing surfactants. Enzyme activity can decline with heat, strong acidity or alkalinity, and incompatible preservatives, so it is usually added during cool-down and protected with suitable stabilizers.
Last updated 2026-05-15