Croda’s KeraBio™ K31 Biotech Breakthrough in Bond-Building Hair Repair

KeraBio™ K31 isn’t just a keratin alternative—it’s a category disruptor. For brands looking to elevate their bond-building claims while embracing biotech and sustainability, this ingredient offers a future forward foundation, a hair repair ingredient for the salon market that outperforms animal derived keratin through biotech powered molecular bonding technology

Croda International has unveiled a transformative new player in the bond-building hair care category: KeraBio™ K31, a biotech-derived keratin ingredient engineered to outperform traditional animal-derived keratin. Developed through advanced molecular bonding technology, this next-gen ingredient is poised to redefine how formulators approach hair repair, especially in the salon and professional care segments.

– Biotech Precision: KeraBio™ K31 is produced via biotechnology-powered synthesis, enabling Croda to replicate the structure and function of native keratin with remarkable accuracy. This allows for targeted repair of damaged hair fibers at the molecular level.

– Developed using Croda’s Protemic platform. According to the company , this enables tailored peptide design , based on the understanding how hair proteins degrade depending on different types and damage conditions.

– Superior Performance: In comparative studies, KeraBio™ K31 demonstrated enhanced penetration and bond restoration compared to conventional hydrolyzed keratin. It strengthens internal hair bonds while improving elasticity and resilience.

– Vegan & Sustainable: Unlike animal-derived keratin, KeraBio™ K31 is vegan-friendly and aligns with clean beauty values. Its biotech origin ensures traceability, consistency, and reduced environmental impact—a win for both brands and conscious consumers.

– Versatile Compatibility: KeraBio™ K31 is suitable for a wide range of formats—from rinse-off masks and conditioners to leave-in treatments and bond-repair serums.

– pH Stability: It remains stable across typical hair care pH ranges (4.0–6.0), making it easy to integrate into existing systems.

– Synergistic Potential: Pairs well with ceramides, amino acids, and botanical actives to create multi-functional repair systems that address both strand and scalp health.

The launch of KeraBio™ K31 reflects a broader shift in the hair care industry toward science-backed, sustainable innovation. As consumers increasingly seek salon-grade results at home, biotech actives like this offer formulators a compelling edge—combining efficacy, ethics, and storytelling power.

Croda’s move also signals growing investment in precision fermentation and protein engineering as tools for next-gen cosmetic actives. With KeraBio™ K31, the company reinforces its position at the intersection of smart science and beauty performance.