Phytosterols
Plant sterols related to skin lipids. They help rebuild the barrier, hold moisture and calm skin. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Barrier-restoring lipids. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Phytosterols are plant sterols, structurally close to cholesterol, a key lipid of the skin barrier. INCI: Phytosterols. In a formula they work as a barrier-support component and soothing agent: they integrate into the intercellular lipids of the stratum corneum, help hold water, and reduce irritation. Cholesterol and sterols are part of the skin's lipid cement, so phytosterols have a meaningful barrier rationale, especially for dry and reactive skin. They are a useful supporting component rather than a potent active. Pregnancy safety. Topical use is systemically negligible, with no evidence of harm. They can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Tolerance. Irritation and allergen potential are low, suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Phytosterols safe during pregnancy?
Phytosterols is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Phytosterols for?
Phytosterols suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Phytosterols and what does it do in cosmetics?
Plant sterols related to skin lipids.
Is Phytosterols comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Phytosterols?
The INCI name is Phytosterols.
See Phytosterols in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni 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.
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Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil, Sea Buckthorn Oil, Sodium Dilauramidoglutamide Lysine, Soy Phospholipids, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Caprooyl Sphingosine, Glycosphingolipid, Lysolecithin
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