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Phytosterol

Phytosterols

Plant-based cholesterol analogue — phytosterols restore the lipid barrier, reduce inflammation, and protect against UV. They come from plant oils and serve as a vegan alternative to cholesterol with additional anti-inflammatory effects.

Barrier lipidsAnti-inflammatoryVeganPlant-based
⚠ Unknown
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Phytosterols (INCI: Phytosterols or specific names: Beta-Sitosterol, Campesterol, Stigmasterol) — a class of plant-derived sterols, structural analogues of cholesterol. Main sources: plant oils (sunflower, soybean, corn), rosehip, avocado. β-Sitosterol is the most common (60–80%). Structurally differ from cholesterol by an additional ethyl or methyl group in the side chain. They exhibit a similar barrier function with additional anti-inflammatory properties.

Vegan alternative to cholesterol in barrier formulas. Effective in combination with ceramides and fatty acids. Popular in natural and certified organic cosmetics.

Key Benefits

✦
Restoration of the lipid barrier — vegan alternative to cholesterol
β-Sitosterol and other phytosterols integrate into the lamellar lipid structures of the stratum corneum similarly to cholesterol. They restore the organization of the lipid bilayer, reduce TEWL, and increase hydration. An effective substitute for cholesterol in vegan formulas.
◈
Anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant action
β-Sitosterol inhibits 5-lipoxygenase and COX-2 — enzymes of leukotriene/prostaglandin synthesis. Reduces NF-κB activation. Especially effective for inflamed, red skin and atopic dermatitis. The combination of barrier restoration + anti-inflammatory action distinguishes it from pure cholesterol.
✧
Anti-aging and UV protection
Phytosterols — natural antioxidants: neutralize free radicals and protect against UV-induced oxidation. β-Sitosterol increases HA and procollagen synthesis in fibroblasts. With regular use — improvement in skin density and elasticity.

Suitable for

Atopic skinSensitive skinMature skinNormal skin

Main Actions

✓ Restoration of the lipid barrier✓ Anti-inflammatory action✓ Anti-aging protection
Phytosterols vs Cholesterol in cosmetics

Cholesterol — maximally identical to skin lipid, most effective for the barrier. Phytosterols — plant source, suitable for vegans, with additional anti-inflammatory effect. For vegan cosmetics, phytosterols are an equivalent substitute. The combination of both (in some formulas) provides synergy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Phytosterols do for skin?
Vegan alternative to cholesterol in barrier formulas. Effective in combination with ceramides and fatty acids. Popular in natural and certified organic cosmetics.
Who should use Phytosterols?
Phytosterols is suitable for: Atopic skin, Sensitive skin, Mature skin, Normal skin.
Are there any warnings about Phytosterols?
Cholesterol — maximally identical to skin lipid, most effective for the barrier. Phytosterols — plant source, suitable for vegans, with additional anti-inflammatory effect. For vegan cosmetics, phytosterols are an equivalent substitute. The combination of both (in some formulas)

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