Materials with high levels of unsaponifiable matter, such as extracts from plants, produce hydrolysates with unique properties. The application of a hydrolysis process to materials, particularly materials with a high level of unsaponifiables (e.g., at least 6 weight percent of the material), produces a product with properties significantly different from those products resulting from the conventional saponification of materials with less than 6 weight percent of unsaponifiables. The hydrolysates of the present invention are substantive, resisting both physical and aqueous-based removal from skin and hair, exhibit a unique surfactant property, and are not foaming agents with water. Hydrolysates according to the present invention may be used to enhance the performance of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. These hydrolysates can be bioactive agents and alternative natural carrying agents for topical application of materials, particularly for application of materials to the skin or hair, providing a substantive support for the materials carried.