Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty substance found naturally in the skin that is widely used in UK skincare and haircare formulas as a highly effective moisturiser and skin barrier supporter.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics cholesterol works as a lipid that integrates into the skin’s intercellular matrix, helping to reinforce the natural protective barrier, reduce moisture loss and improve the texture and smoothness of both skin and hair. It is frequently combined with ceramides and fatty acids in barrier-supporting creams, rich moisturisers, lip balms and conditioning hair treatments, where it softens, conditions and helps the product to spread evenly without feeling greasy.
Key benefits
- Helps restore and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier
- Locks in moisture to prevent dryness and dehydration
- Improves skin softness and smoothness
- Enhances the texture and spreadability of creams and balms
- Conditions and smooths dry or damaged hair
- Helps calm the appearance of flaky or rough skin
Best for
dry skin, mature skin, sensitive skin, dehydrated skin, damaged skin barrier
Where it comes from
While cholesterol can be derived from lanolin in sheep’s wool, the form used in modern UK beauty products is typically produced from plant sterols sourced from vegetable oils.