Mix of phospholipids, usually from soy or sunflower. Natural emulsifier and carrier: aids active delivery into the stratum corneum and forms liposomal systems.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Phosphatidylcholine boosts stratum corneum permeability for hydrophilic actives and acts as a mild emollient. Native lecithin can be comedogenic on oily skin, so clean formulations often use the hydrogenated form.
Lecithin is a mix of phospholipids, the main component being phosphatidylcholine (40–60%). Obtained from soybeans, sunflower seeds or egg yolk. In human cell membranes lecithin is the main structural lipid. Mechanism. Natural emulsifier: one molecule binds water and oil. On skin it incorporates into the intercellular lipid matrix of the stratum corneum and supports the barrier. Forms liposomes – microscopic vesicles that improve delivery of actives into the epidermis. Where applied. Creams and serums (1–10%), liposomal delivery systems for vitamin C, retinol, peptides. Brands include Sesderma C-Vit (liposomal vitamin C), Endocare, La Roche-Posay Substiane. Evidence base. CIR 2018 confirmed safety. Comparative work (Schäfer-Korting 2007) shows liposomal forms deliver actives 3–10× more efficiently than standard emulsions. Comedogenicity controversy. Technical lecithins with high oleic acid received a rating of 4 in Fulton's comedogenicity scale. Purified phospholipid fractions (phosphatidylcholine) are non-comedogenic. The lecithin type in the composition is usually not indicated – in acne patients a reaction to low-quality forms is possible. Safety. Allergy is rare but possible in patients with soy or egg allergy. Premium-cosmetic brands more often use sunflower lecithin as less allergenic. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Topically applicable at any stage.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Lecithin is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Lecithin suits: normal, dry, sensitive. Use with caution in: oily.
Mix of phospholipids, usually from soy or sunflower.
On the Fulton scale 4/5 – high comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Lecithin. It may also appear as: Soy Lecithin, Phosphatidylcholine, Лецитин.
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Use with caution