Cholesterol
One of the three pillars of skin barrier lipids alongside ceramides and free fatty acids. Essential at the 1:1:1 ratio for membrane repair.
Inserts into intercellular lipid bilayers; required for proper lamellar phase formation that retains water.
- Restores barrier
- Reduces TEWL
- Synergises with ceramides
- Suitable for mature skin
What the evidence supports.
- All skin types
No notable contraindications reported.
Later treatment or moisturiser step.
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.1%–2%
Year-round; essential in winter.
Dietary cholesterol (eggs, dairy) and de novo synthesis support skin cholesterol.
- Severe barrier dysfunction
Pair always with ceramides and fatty acids, solo cholesterol is incomplete.
- Man et al. 1996, 1:1:1 lipid ratio accelerated barrier recovery in damaged skin
The research behind Cholesterol.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
Journal of Advanced Research, 2015
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
Cutis, 2006
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
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