Gelatin is a protein substance derived from collagen, a natural protein present in the tendons, ligaments, and tissues of mammals. Gelatin manufactured in the United States for food,drug and cosmetic uses is made from pig skins or from cattle hides or bones which are sourced from healthy animals slaughtered in plants inspected by the U.S. Gelatin has been used for many years in the cosmetics industry as “hydrolyzed animal protein” in shampoos, conditioners, lipsticks and fingernail formulas. Recently, additional uses for gelatin have been found as a collagen source in topical creams and other value added cosmetic products. The type of protein in gelatin is not the type that promotes growth or helps with brittle nails. However, many cosmetic companies use gelatin in their hair gel products. Gelatin can be found in numerous cosmetic products because of its thickening properties which help the makeup and other products to be more durable and remain on the skin longer.