Sesame Seed Amino-Peptides (INCI: Sesamum indicum Seed Protein)

Sesame is an upright, flowering plant that is native to Africa and India, and is cultivated extensively for human consumption in these geographical regions today. Sesame plants are grown primarily for their oil-rich and protein-rich seeds, which range from very light to almost black in color, depending on the variety. The paler varieties of sesame are more widely consumed in the West and Middle East, while the black varieties are more widely consumed throughout Asia. The small sesame seeds are used whole in many recipes for its rich, nutty flavor and they also yield sesame oil that is used in cooking. The seeds are exceptionally rich in iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, and calcium, vitamin B1 (thiamine), and vitamin E (tocopherol). They contain lignans, including the compound sesamin (which is unique to the plant), which have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

The protein peptides in sesame have unique properties for skincare products. Research has demonstrated that sesame proteins have an anti-wrinkle and tightening effect on the skin when topically applied. Unlike other peptides that work directly to stimulate collagen synthesis in the skin, sesame peptides form a network inside the epidermis that provides both an elastic tightening effect as well as lasting moisture. Though this effect is temporary it certainly is useful in products that aim to work rapidly to provide anti-aging effects while other active ingredients restore the skin's collagen/elastin network over time. Unlike some "instant tightening" ingredients used on the market, when sesame peptides are used in a precise concentration they are absorbed deep enough that they won't leave a film on the skin while still providing supplemental elasticity to facial structures.