Common Name(s): Undecylenoyl hydrolyzed wheat protein,antifungal biopolymer conjugate,sustained anti-dandruff active

CAS Number: N/a

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Inhibits malassezia dandruff yeast through undecylenic acid enoyl reductase inhibition while the biopolymer backbone deposits on scalp and persists for hours — providing between-wash antifungal protection that free undecylenic acid rinsing away in seconds cannot deliver.

Why It's Used: Free undecylenic acid has excellent antifungal potency but is removed from scalp within 30 seconds of rinsing — the biopolymer conjugate deposits the active on scalp through electrostatic or h-bonding interactions and releases it slowly, dramatically extending antifungal efficacy.

How It Works: Undecylenoyl c11 trans-2-enoate chain inhibits enoyl-acp reductase in malassezia type ii fatty acid synthesis blocking c12-c18 lipid production required for membrane integrity. the hydrolyzed wheat pro biopolymer deposits on scalp through surface interactions creating a reservoir film that continuously releases undecylenoyl active over hours between washes.

Typically Found In: Anti-dandruff shampoos,scalp care

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – skin microbiome support

Secondary Functions: Microbiome balance,prebiotic effect

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Fermentation-derived or plant-extracted.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; beneficial for sensitive skin.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.

Works Well With: Ceramides,niacinamide,soothing actives

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Biopolymer deposition mechanism varies by substrate type: protein hydrolysate conjugates deposit through thiol-disulfide interactions with hair cortex; polysaccharide (carrageenan, alginate, inulin) conjugates deposit on scalp skin through electrostatic and h-bonding; providing different scalp versus hair targeting options.

Last Verified: Cosing database,undecylenoyl hydrolyzed wheat pro antifungal sustained release review

Primary Sources: 2026-03-12