What is Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract?
Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract, also known as Struthio Camelus Egg Yolk Extract, is derived from the yolks of ostrich eggs. The ostrich egg is the largest of all egg types, and its yolk is rich in nutrients, proteins, and lipids, making it a valuable ingredient in the cosmetic industry. The extract is a complex mixture of proteins, lipids, and water, which contribute to its skin conditioning and emollient properties.
The use of ostrich egg yolk extract in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, but the use of eggs in skincare dates back to ancient times. Eggs have been used for centuries in various cultures for their skin-enhancing properties. The ostrich egg, in particular, has been prized for its large size and nutrient-rich yolk. The extraction process involves separating the yolk from the egg white, then using a process of centrifugation and filtration to obtain the extract.
While there are other egg yolk extracts available, such as chicken egg yolk extract, ostrich egg yolk extract is unique due to the size and nutrient content of the ostrich egg. The ostrich egg yolk is significantly larger and contains more nutrients than a chicken egg yolk, leading to a more potent extract.
Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products due to its skin conditioning and emollient properties. These include moisturizers, serums, and other skincare products. Its antimicrobial properties also make it a useful ingredient in products designed to combat acne and other skin conditions.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract:
Antimicrobial Properties
Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract is known for its antimicrobial properties. This means it can help to prevent the growth of certain bacteria and fungi on the skin. This is particularly beneficial in cosmetic products as it can help to keep the product free from harmful microorganisms, thereby extending its shelf life. Additionally, when applied to the skin, it can help to protect against certain skin infections, contributing to overall skin health.
Skin Conditioning
Another key benefit of Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract is its skin conditioning properties. As a skin conditioner, 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 results in an improvement in the surface characteristics of the skin. This makes it a valuable ingredient in products such as moisturizers, lotions, and creams.
Emollient
As an emollient, Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract helps to soften and smooth the skin. Emollients work by filling in the spaces between skin cells with lipids, creating a smooth skin surface. This not only improves the appearance of the skin, but also provides a protective layer that helps to prevent moisture loss, keeping the skin hydrated and healthy.
Please note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract. There may be other benefits and uses that go beyond the scope of these official functions.
Safety Profile
Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it is always recommended to do a patch test before using a new product widely.
As for its allergenic potential, it is relatively low. However, individuals with known allergies to eggs or egg products should exercise caution as this extract is derived from ostrich egg yolks.
Potential side effects of topical application of Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in individuals with egg allergies
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently insufficient data on the safety of topically applied Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Ostrich Egg Yolk Extract are not common, but as mentioned earlier, a patch test is always recommended before widespread usage.
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.
