Rate My SPF

Silk Extract

What Silk Extract is & what it does

Silk Extract is obtained from silk fibers produced by the silkworm and is composed largely of silk proteins such as fibroin and their amino acids. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it is used as a skin-conditioning agent that can help leave a smooth, soft feel and may improve the sensory texture of a product. Because it is protein-based, it is also valued for its film-forming and moisture-binding qualities.

What does Silk Extract do in skincare?

Silk Extract is derived from silk fibers and is used in skincare formulas as a conditioning agent that can leave a smooth, soft feel on skin. It is valued for the proteins and amino acids associated with silk and is often included for its sensory and marketing appeal. It is typically used at low concentrations as an additive.

Is Silk Extract vegan?

Silk Extract is generally not considered vegan because silk is produced by silkworms, making it an animal-derived material. Vegan formulators usually avoid silk-based ingredients and choose plant or synthetic alternatives instead. Anyone following a vegan routine should treat silk-named ingredients with caution.

Is Silk Extract natural or synthetic?

Silk Extract is a naturally sourced material derived from silk produced by silkworms, then processed for cosmetic use. It is animal-derived rather than plant-based or fully synthetic. The extract is used as a specialty conditioning additive.

Sunscreens with Silk Extract

We rate 11 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

← All ingredients