Microbially Extracted Keratin From sheep wool and its application in hair nourishing oil.

Background/Problem Description:

Keratins abundantly present in animal hair, feather, hooves and nail have immense application in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. However, these proteins are extremely difficult to dissolve and needs harsh mechanical and chemical treatment sometimes at elevated temperature for prolonged period. Such treatments sometimes modify the protein limiting its applications. Moreover, some of the chemicals have harmful effects on environment.  Human hair gets damaged due to natural process of aging or from exposure to excessive heat, harsh chemical treatments (bleaching/dyeing), mechanical friction (like rough towel-drying or tight hair ties). Damaged hair loses outer protective layer (the cuticle) cracks or lifts, allowing moisture to escape and the hair’s protein structure to weaken.

Technology Details:

The microbe mediated keratin extraction process is environment friendly and sustainable and can serve as an alternative to conventional energy intensive harmful chemical-based protocol. A keratinolytic bacterial isolate, AR31 isolated from poultry shop waste was found to give 56-72% keratin solubilization from animal hair such as sheep wool. Microbially extracted keratin maintains native configuration unlike chemically extracted keratin. Such keratin when fortified in hair oil provides a powerful, restorative function that combines the structural protein naturally found in the hair with nourishing carrier oils. It works by penetrating the hair shaft to rebuild damaged areas, reduce frizz, lock in moisture, and create a protective shield against heat and environmental stress. It helps improve shine and strength of hair. Since keratins are integral part of human hair, application of keratin fortified hair oil has been found to improve hair shine and strength.