Sphingolipids
A group of physiological lipids of the stratum corneum – together with cholesterol and fatty acids they form the skin's lipid matrix. Sphingolipids include ceramides, sphingomyelins, glycosphingolipids. Restore barrier lipid deficits in atopic dermatitis, rosacea, after retinoids and peels. Evidence base is solid.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Topical sphingolipids repair the barrier in atopic dermatitis and dry skin: reduce TEWL, accelerate remission (Chamlin 2002, Draelos 2011). They work best combined with cholesterol and fatty acids in a 3:1:1 ratio.
- Chamlin SL et al. Ceramide-dominant barrier repair lipids alleviate atopic dermatitis. JAAD 2002;47(2):198-208. PMID 12140465
- Draelos ZD et al. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(6):554-558. PMID 37276158
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
Sphingolipids are a group of physiological stratum-corneum lipids. Together with cholesterol and free fatty acids they form the skin's lipid matrix in roughly a 1:1:1 ratio. The class includes ceramides, sphingomyelins, glycosphingolipids. Mechanism. Replenish barrier lipid deficits in atopic dermatitis, rosacea, after retinoids and peels. Insert into stratum-corneum intercellular lamellae and restore barrier function. Effect – lower TEWL and itch. Where applied. Repair creams and serums (0.5-3%), atopic-skin products, post-procedure care. In Spain – La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M, Eucerin AtopiControl, CeraVe Cream, Bioderma Atoderm. Evidence base. AAD 2024 and EADV 2023 include sphingolipid-containing emollients in first-line atopic-dermatitis treatment in children and adults. SCORAD reduction by 30-50% over 4-8 weeks of daily use (Chamlin 2002, Boguniewicz 2008). Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Fully biocompatible – no foreign effect on skin. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. First-line agents for gestational xerosis, abdominal itch, atopy flare. Applicable to any area, including nipples during breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sphingolipids safe during pregnancy?
Sphingolipids is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sphingolipids for?
Sphingolipids suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sphingolipids and what does it do in cosmetics?
A group of physiological lipids of the stratum corneum – together with cholesterol and fatty acids they form the skin's lipid matrix.
What's the INCI name for Sphingolipids?
The INCI name is Sphingolipids. It may also appear as: Sphingolipid.
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