Cholesterol

Ingredient

Cholesterol

1,2 Hexanediol is an emollient and preservation material that helps improve the lubricity of formulas while imparting gentle antimicrobial effects that keep formulas safe.

Common Name

Cholesterol

Category

Skin-identical ingredient

Benefits

Moisturizing

Barrier-strengthening

Anti-aging

Soothing

Performance Rating

Very good

Chemical Structure

Quick Summary Benefits

Enhances skin barrier function

Improves skin hydration and moisture retention

Reduces signs of aging and fine lines

Soothes and calms irritated skin

Supports skin repair and regeneration

Use & Background in Skincare

Cholesterol is a naturally occurring lipid found in the skin's stratum corneum. It plays a crucial role in maintaining skin barrier function and regulating moisture levels. In skincare, cholesterol is used as an emollient and occlusive agent to improve skin hydration and protect against environmental stressors.

Detailed Description

Cholesterol is a vital component of the skin's natural lipid barrier, accounting for about 25% of the lipids in the stratum corneum [1]. This waxy substance is essential for maintaining skin health, hydration, and barrier function. Despite its negative reputation in cardiovascular health, cholesterol plays a crucial positive role when applied topically in skincare products.

The efficacy of cholesterol in skincare is largely attributed to its ability to mimic and support the skin's natural lipid structure. When applied topically, cholesterol helps to reinforce the skin barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improving overall skin hydration [2]. This enhanced barrier function not only helps to lock in moisture but also protects the skin from external irritants and pollutants.

Clinical studies have demonstrated the benefits of cholesterol in various skincare applications. A study by Rawlings et al. showed that a combination of cholesterol, ceramides, and fatty acids in a 3:1:1 ratio significantly improved skin barrier repair and reduced inflammation in compromised skin [3]. Furthermore, research has indicated that cholesterol can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by improving skin elasticity and promoting cellular turnover [4].

Historically, the use of cholesterol in skincare dates back to the mid-20th century when researchers began to understand the composition of the skin's lipid barrier. Today, it is widely recognized as a key ingredient in "skin-identical" or biomimetic formulations, which aim to replicate and support the skin's natural structure and function [5].

Comedogenicity

1 (Low) - Cholesterol is generally considered non-comedogenic [6].

Sustainability Notes

Cholesterol used in skincare is typically derived from lanolin, a sustainable, renewable resource obtained from sheep's wool. The extraction process is considered environmentally friendly, as it utilizes a by-product of the wool industry. However, concerns about animal welfare in wool production should be considered.

How It's Made

Cholesterol for skincare is primarily sourced from lanolin, which is extracted from sheep's wool during the wool cleaning process. It undergoes purification and refinement to meet cosmetic-grade standards before being incorporated into skincare formulations.

References

[1] Feingold, K. R., & Elias, P. M. (2014). Role of lipids in the formation and maintenance of the cutaneous permeability barrier. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA)-Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids, 1841(3), 280-294.

[2] Lodén, M., & Maibach, H. I. (Eds.). (2005). Dry skin and moisturizers: chemistry and function. CRC press.

[3] Rawlings, A. V., Scott, I. R., Harding, C. R., & Bowser, P. A. (1994). Stratum corneum moisturization at the molecular level. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 103(5), 731-740.

[4] Ghadially, R., Brown, B. E., Sequeira-Martin, S. M., Feingold, K. R., & Elias, P. M. (1995). The aged epidermal permeability barrier. Structural, functional, and lipid biochemical abnormalities in humans and a senescent murine model. The Journal of clinical investigation, 95(5), 2281-2290.

[5] Elias, P. M. (2005). Stratum corneum defensive functions: an integrated view. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 125(2), 183-200.

[6] Draelos, Z. D., & DiNardo, J. C. (2006). A re-evaluation of the comedogenicity concept. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 54(3), 507-512.

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