In recent years, the cosmetics industry has seen a growing demand for naturally sourced, sustainable, and multifunctional ingredients. Among these, eggshell membrane has garnered significant attention as an innovative skincare formulation ingredient. Eggshell membrane consists of two thin layers, only 0.07mm thick, located between the eggshell and the egg white, and is rich in various active beauty substances. Its efficacy, sustainable sourcing, and environmentally friendly approach make it an ideal choice for cosmetic manufacturers and formulators.
Key Bioactive Components of Eggshell Membrane
Eggshell membranes are rich in various bioactive components, primarily keratin, elastin, collagen, hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and dissolving enzymes, as well as trace elements such as calcium, magnesium, and strontium.
The sulfated glycosaminoglycans in eggshell membranes, including chondroitin sulfate and dermatan sulfate, are crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the skin. Furthermore, the eggshell membrane contains amino acids such as glycine, proline, and arginine, which are essential building blocks for the synthesis of proteins in the skin itself.
What Type of Collagen is in Eggshell Membrane?
The eggshell membrane is a naturally occurring protective barrier layer during chicken incubation, and it is highly similar to the extracellular matrix. Therefore, the eggshell membrane is also used as a biomaterial for skin injury healing. Its main component is protein, which is very similar to the composition of human skin and hair. It exists as glycoproteins, mainly consisting of type I collagen, type V collagen, and type X collagen.
- Type I collagen is the most abundant in human skin and plays a critical role in maintaining skin strength and firmness.
- Type V collagen is involved in regulating collagen fibril formation, contributing to the structural organization of the dermis.
- Type X collagen, although less common, is associated with tissue regeneration and repair processes.
Role of Eggshell Membrane in Anti-Aging Formulations
One of the key reasons eggshell membrane is gaining popularity is its potential in anti-aging skincare. The natural collagen and elastin content helps improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. At the same time, glycosaminoglycans contribute to maintaining moisture levels, which is crucial for preventing dryness-related aging.
Furthermore, eggshell membrane may help stimulate the skin's natural repair processes, promoting smoother and firmer skin over time. Its multifunctional nature allows it to serve as a core active ingredient in anti-aging creams, serums, and masks.
Hydration and Skin Barrier Support Mechanisms
Besides protein, eggshell membranes are also a natural source of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture within the skin layers, thereby improving skin plumpness and reducing transepidermal water loss.
Furthermore, the amino acids in eggshell membranes can strengthen the structural components of the skin barrier, thus enhancing its function. A stronger skin barrier not only retains moisture more effectively but also resists environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation.
Applications of Eggshell Membrane in Skincare Products
Eggshell membrane is a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into a wide range of cosmetic products. It is commonly used in anti-aging creams, moisturizing lotions, serums, facial masks, and eye care formulations. Due to its film-forming properties, it can also enhance the texture and sensory profile of finished products.
Hydrolyzed vs. Non-Hydrolyzed Eggshell Membrane
| Aspect | Hydrolyzed Eggshell Membrane | Non-Hydrolyzed Eggshell Membrane |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular Structure | Large proteins are enzymatically broken down into small peptides and amino acids. | Complete, highly cross-linked fibrous protein network structure. |
| Solubility | Water-soluble, easily dissolves in water, facilitating formulation. | Water-insoluble, only swells in water, cannot dissolve. |
| Key Functional Components | Primarily small peptides and free amino acids, releases fragments like collagen and hyaluronic acid. | Complete natural active proteins such as lysozyme, collagen, lysyl oxidase. |
| Bioactivity | Small peptides penetrate skin more easily to exert effects like antioxidant activity and stimulating collagen synthesis. | Activity limited by molecular size and solubility; primarily provides physical protection by adhering and forming a film. |
| Skincare Benefits | Targets specific skin concerns like anti-aging, repair, brightening, and anti-inflammation. | Primarily acts as a film-former for moisturizing, protecting skin, and promoting wound healing. |
Eggshell Membrane vs. Plant-Based Alternatives in Cosmetics
With the rise of vegan beauty practices, many are asking how eggshell membranes compare to plant-based collagen alternatives. While "vegan collagen" such as fermented yeast or soy protein can effectively moisturize the skin's surface, eggshell membranes provides complete biological components that plants cannot replicate.
Eggshell membranes contains the exact ratio of proteins and fibrous tissues found in animal-based systems, which some dermatologists believe better matches the skin's repair mechanisms. However, for those seeking strictly cruelty-free or vegan labels, ESM remains a "vegetarian" but not "vegan" option.
The Future Trend of Eggshell Membrane in the Beauty Industry
Globally, the eggshell membrane market is expanding rapidly. According to Precedence Research, the global eggshell membrane market size was $156 million in 2025 and is projected to reach $382 million by 2032, with a projected CAGR of 9.32% from 2026 to 2035.
In the Japanese market, Almado, a long-time player in the eggshell membrane market, has developed a product matrix including serums, toners, makeup removers/cleansers, creams, and functional food supplements like CELLULA FALCO. Furthermore, FANCL and Bioagen have also launched oral beauty liquids made from eggshell membranes.
In the North American market, eggshell membranes are increasingly used in dietary supplements. Brands such as NOW, Swanson, Webber Naturals, Bulk Supplements, Nutricost, and Organika have launched eggshell membrane products, primarily in capsule and powder forms, targeting oral beauty and joint health.
Overall, the market potential of eggshell membranes continues to be realized.
Undersun is a natural ingredient supplier, we offer bulk eggshell membrane powder and hydrolyzed eggshell membrane ingredient widely used in skincare products. These ingredients can be used in anti-aging skincare products, moisturizers, serums, masks, and functional cosmetic formulations. We provide complete documentation including Certificate of Analysis (COA), specification sheets, safety data sheets (SDS), flowcharts, and more.
Are you looking for a reliable eggshell membrane ingredients supplier for your new product line? Contact us today for a quote!
Also See
How to Choose the Right Centella Asiatica Extract for Your Cosmetic Formulation
Application of curcumin in the cosmetics industry
Reference
Frontiers in Nutrition (2025). Comparative effects of eggshell membrane and hydrolyzed collagen as nutricosmetics on skin biophysical properties: A randomized clinical trial.
Park, S. et al. (2024). Profiling bioactive components of natural eggshell membrane (NEM) and its antioxidant effects. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
Zhao, Y. H., & Chi, Y. J. (2009). Characterization of collagen from eggshell membrane. Biotechnology Journal.
Ahmed, T. A., et al. (2020). Processed eggshell membrane powder is a promising biomaterial for tissue engineering. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (MDPI).
Kato, Y., et al. (2018). Solubilized eggshell membrane supplies a type III collagen-rich dermal microenvironment. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research.
Sari, D. P., et al. (2022). Anti-aging face cream formulation using eggshell membrane collagen extract. Indonesian Journal of Pharmacy.
