What is Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract?
Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract, also known as Sus Scrofa Bile Extract, is a cosmetic ingredient derived from the bile of pigs. Bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, contains a complex mixture of substances including bile acids, cholesterol, and bilirubin. When hydrolyzed, or broken down by acid, enzyme or other method of hydrolysis, these components can offer a range of benefits for the skin.
The use of pig bile in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, but the medicinal use of bile extracts dates back centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It was believed to have a variety of health benefits, and modern science has begun to explore these claims in the context of skin care. The process of creating Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract involves extracting the bile from the gallbladder of pigs, then subjecting it to a hydrolysis process to break down the complex substances into smaller, more easily absorbed components.
While there are other animal and plant-derived ingredients that offer similar benefits, such as antioxidant activity and skin conditioning, Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract is unique in its source and composition. Unlike plant extracts, which can vary widely in their chemical makeup, the composition of pig bile is relatively consistent, ensuring a predictable range of benefits.
Typically, Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract is used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers and serums. Its occlusive properties make it particularly beneficial in moisturizers, where it can help to form a barrier on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture loss. Meanwhile, its antioxidant and skin conditioning properties make it a valuable addition to serums, where it can help to protect the skin from environmental damage and improve its overall appearance.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract:
Antioxidant
As an antioxidant, Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful environmental factors. Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. In simpler terms, it helps to keep your skin healthy and youthful by fighting off harmful substances that can cause damage.
Skin Conditioning
Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract is also recognized for its skin conditioning properties. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer and more supple. It achieves this by increasing the water content of the top layers of the skin, which improves the appearance and texture of the skin. So, if you’re looking for a product that can help to improve the overall feel and look of your skin, Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract could be a beneficial ingredient to consider.
Occlusive
Lastly, Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract functions as an occlusive. In skincare, an occlusive is a substance that creates a physical barrier on the skin to prevent water loss. This can help to keep the skin hydrated and moisturized, which is particularly beneficial for dry skin types. By locking in moisture, it helps to keep the skin plump and hydrated, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, the information provided here gives you a good starting point to understand what this ingredient is capable of in a cosmetic context.
Safety Profile
Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. However, like any other cosmetic ingredient, its safety and suitability largely depend on its concentration and the manner in which it is used.
As for its allergenic potential, it is generally considered to be low. However, individuals with a known allergy to pig products should avoid cosmetics containing this ingredient to prevent potential allergic reactions.
The potential side effects of topical application of Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Redness
- Dryness
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical usage of Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Side effects or adverse reactions from Hydrolyzed Pig Bile Extract are not common. However, as with any new skincare product, it is recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
