As hair is exposed to daily stressors such as UV exposure, heat styling and frequent washing, it becomes dry and damaged. Quinoa Pro EX (INCI Name: Hydrolyzed Quinoa) is a new hydrolysed quinoa protein from TRI-K Industries that binds to the hair shaft and penetrates the cortex bringing moisture and repair deep into the hair.
Quinoa is best known as a food ingredient, offering a complete amino acid profile and the highest level of protein of all grains. It has now been found to have distinct cosmetic benefits as well. Quinoa Pro EX confers film forming and moisture retention benefits typical of hydrolysed proteins, but has also been shown to provide substantivity and penetration on the hair for damage repair and control. Quinoa Pro EX is also paraben-free and gluten-free, making it ideal for natural and mild formulations. The efficacy of Quinoa Pro EX was determined using fluorescence microscopy to assess the adsorption of Quinoa Pro EX on the hair surface and its penetration into the cortex. After five treatments, the Quinoa Pro EX sample showed a 32% improvement, compared to the control, on the damage to the outside of the hair, and a 26% reduction of damage inside the hair cortex.
