Cosmetics · Marine ingredients
Conchiolin
コンキオリン (Konkiorin)
Also known as: Pearl Shell Protein
At a glance
| Category | Cosmetics |
|---|---|
| INCI name | Conchiolin / Hydrolyzed Conchiolin |
| Japanese labeling name | コンキオリン |
| Common Japanese notations | コンキオリン |
| Origin | Marine (protein matrix of pearl and shell) |
| Typical functions | Skin conditioning, Film former |
| Regulatory status in Japan | Cosmetic ingredient listed in the JSCI labeling name dictionary. |
Conchiolin is the protein matrix component of pearl and shell materials. It is the organic scaffold on which nacre and aragonite layers deposit during pearl formation. Hydrolyzed conchiolin is supplied as a cosmetic ingredient, often alongside pearl extract in Japanese luxury-positioned skincare.
Classification
Tags below link to other ingredients sharing the same attribute, so you can pivot from one ingredient to its peers.
Product applications
Functions
Regulatory tags
Used in (typical product categories)
Finished-product categories that commonly include this ingredient in Japanese-market formulations.
- Face masks and essences
- Hair care
- Luxury-positioned skincare
What it is
Conchiolin is a complex protein extracted from pearl and shell byproduct. Hydrolyzed conchiolin is produced by enzymatic or acid hydrolysis of the protein, yielding smaller peptides and amino acids.
Typical uses in Japanese products
In cosmetics, conchiolin and hydrolyzed conchiolin appear in face masks, essences, hair care, and luxury-positioned skincare. The ingredient frequently features in lines that also use pearl extract.
Regulatory classification in Japan
Cosmetic use is permitted under the JSCI dictionary.
Regulatory classification in other markets
| EU | Listed in CosIng. Permitted for cosmetic use. |
|---|---|
| USA | INCI recognized by PCPC. |
| China | Permitted per IECIC listings. |
| Korea | Permitted under KFDA / MFDS. |
Example products
Example finished products will be added after each product's current full ingredient list has been verified.
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Related ingredients
References
- JSCI labeling name directory — コンキオリン
- EU CosIng entry: Conchiolin
Last updated: 2026-04-22. Ingredient entries are reviewed at least annually against current regulatory listings.