Cynatine HNS (Soluble Keratin)
Cynatine HNS is a clinically-studied soluble keratin derived from sheep's wool that provides bioavailable cysteine and keratin peptides for hair, nail, and skin health. The ingredient works by supplying essential amino acids needed for keratin synthesis and structural protein formation.

Origin & History
Cynatine HNS is a branded, soluble form of hydrolyzed keratin derived from New Zealand white sheep wool through a patented process using neutral pH and moderate temperatures. This process produces low-molecular-weight, hydrosoluble oligopeptides while preserving the native amino acid profile similar to human hair, skin, and nails, avoiding aggressive chemical extraction methods that denature standard keratin.
Historical & Cultural Context
No historical context in traditional medicine systems is documented for Cynatine HNS. It is a modern, patented innovation from wool keratin processing developed through contemporary biotechnology, not linked to ancient practices.
Health Benefits
• Increased hair tensile strength by 10% and thickness by 8-10% (randomized controlled trial with 60 women) • Reduced hair loss and increased hair luster/shine versus placebo (p<0.05 in clinical study) • Enhanced nail growth and strength (manufacturer claims from clinical studies) • Provides bioavailable cysteine for disulfide bond formation in keratin synthesis (mechanistic evidence) • Supports cellular antioxidant defenses through glutathione and sulfur-rich protein synthesis (in vitro data)
How It Works
Cynatine HNS provides bioavailable cysteine and keratin-associated proteins that serve as building blocks for keratin synthesis in hair follicles, nail beds, and skin cells. The soluble keratin peptides are absorbed in the digestive tract and transported via blood circulation to target tissues. Cysteine residues form disulfide bonds that strengthen the keratin matrix structure, improving hair tensile strength and nail integrity.
Scientific Research
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated Cynatine HNS (500 mg/day for 90 days) in 60 healthy women with hair loss or thinning, demonstrating significant improvements in hair tensile strength, thickness, and reduced hair loss (full text PMC4214097). In vitro studies confirmed high bioavailability and delivery of keratin peptides to hair follicles, though additional manufacturer claims of up to 20% increase in hair structural components lack full published RCT details.
Clinical Summary
A randomized controlled trial with 60 women showed Cynatine HNS supplementation increased hair tensile strength by 10% and thickness by 8-10% compared to placebo. The same study demonstrated significant improvements in hair luster and reduced hair loss (p<0.05). Manufacturer-sponsored studies report enhanced nail growth and strength, though independent replication of these findings is limited. The clinical evidence is promising but comes from a small number of studies with relatively small sample sizes.
Nutritional Profile
Cynatine HNS is a patented soluble keratin protein ingredient derived from wool keratin, standardized to approximately 500mg per typical serving dose used in clinical trials. Protein content: ~90-95% hydrolyzed keratin protein by dry weight, composed predominantly of structural fibrous protein chains. Amino acid profile is cysteine-rich: cysteine and cystine account for approximately 10-17% of total amino acid content (significantly higher than most dietary proteins), providing the primary sulfur-containing building blocks for disulfide bond formation in hair and nail keratin structures. Other abundant amino acids include serine (~10%), glutamic acid (~12%), glycine (~8%), leucine (~7%), and valine (~6%), reflecting the composition of alpha-keratin. The solubility is achieved through a proprietary reduction process that cleaves disulfide bonds to produce low-molecular-weight keratin peptides (molecular weight range approximately 1,000–10,000 Da), which substantially improves bioavailability compared to intact keratin (which is essentially indigestible). Sulfur content is notably high (~3-4% by weight) due to cysteine residues. Mineral content is minimal and not nutritionally significant. No meaningful carbohydrate, fat, or fiber content. No vitamins present in significant quantities. Bioavailability is the key differentiator: solubilized/hydrolyzed keratin peptides are absorbed via intestinal peptide transporters (PepT1) and as free amino acids, whereas native keratin resists digestion entirely. The soluble form demonstrates measurable plasma amino acid elevation post-ingestion, supporting systemic delivery of cysteine for endogenous keratin synthesis.
Preparation & Dosage
The clinically studied dosage is 500 mg/day of Cynatine HNS powder (soluble keratin hydrolyzate) for hair, skin, and nail benefits, as demonstrated in the 90-day RCT. This standardized form contains >60% peptides and is taken orally in supplement form. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Synergy & Pairings
Biotin, Collagen peptides, Vitamin C, Zinc, Silicon
Safety & Interactions
Cynatine HNS appears well-tolerated in clinical studies with no reported serious adverse effects. As a keratin-derived ingredient, individuals with wool or lanolin allergies should exercise caution. No specific drug interactions have been documented, but the high cysteine content may theoretically affect medications metabolized by sulfur-containing pathways. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established through clinical research.