Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a skin-identical lipid and emollient found in the stratum corneum and used in topical formulations. It's included to improve suppleness and reinforce the moisture barrier, often alongside ceramides and fatty acids in rich creams.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A skin-identical lipid that reinforces the moisture barrier and softens skin.
Category
Barrier Support, Skin Conditioning, Hydration, Sensitive Skin
Type
Emollient

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier for improved comfort and reduced dryness. Helps skin feel more resilient and less tight in harsh conditions.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Frequently found in barrier-repair moisturizers, rich creams, and night treatments. Also used in eye creams and balm-like formulas designed for very dry or sensitive areas.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient has a comedogenic rating of 0. It is considered non-comedogenic and has little to no likelihood of clogging pores.

Safety

Generally well tolerated with low irritation potential. Suitable for sensitive skin, though patch testing is prudent for highly reactive users.

Is Cholesterol a Good Ingredient?

It’s a skin-identical lipid with strong support for barrier repair, especially when paired with ceramides and fatty acids. It is stable in emulsions and has a low irritation profile, suiting dry and sensitive skin. That level of consistent performance is enough to put it in the Great tier.

Products with Cholesterol

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