Phytosphingosine

INCI: Phytosphingosine
Also known as: PS
BarrierbarrierbiotechModerate evidencePregnancy safe
80
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
0/5
Best applied
Both
Effective range
0.1%–1%
How It Works

A precursor to ceramides synthesised by skin from sphingosine. Has additional antimicrobial action against acne-causing bacteria.

Converts in vivo to ceramides while exerting direct antimicrobial action against C. acnes and S. aureus.

pH Range
4.0–7.0
Benefits
  • Ceramide precursor
  • Antibacterial
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Suitable for acne-prone barrier
Proven For

What the evidence supports.

AcneBarrier weaknessMild dermatitis
Best For
  • All skin types
Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order
7/10

Later treatment or moisturiser step.

Max Safe Concentration
1%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.1%–1%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Derived from yeast fermentation.

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Hybrid barrier + antimicrobial, unique value for acne-prone clients with compromised barrier.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Phytosphingosine.

4 peer-reviewed studies

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.

Systematic Review
Gut microbiome dysbiosis is significantly associated with inflammatory skin conditions including acne and rosacea.
Dréno B, Dagnelie MA, Khammari A, Corvec S
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2020
View Study →
Systematic Review
EPA supplementation at 1.8g/day reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 42% over 12 weeks.
Thomsen BJ, Chow EY, Sapijaszko MJ
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2020
View Study →
Systematic Review
Vitamin D deficiency significantly associated with acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Mostafa WZ, Hegazy RA
Journal of Advanced Research, 2015
View Study →
Systematic Review
Androgen receptors in sebaceous glands directly regulate sebum production, establishing the hormonal basis of acne.
Makrantonaki E, Ganceviciene R, Zouboulis C
Dermato-Endocrinology, 2011
View Study →
Pairs Well With
Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility

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