Hydrogenated Lecithin
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Lecithin
Functions as a skin-conditioning emollient | Can enhance the penetration of other ingredients
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
Hydrogenated Lecithin products at Skintique
View all →
What Is Hydrogenated Lecithin?
Hydrogenated lecithin is a phospholipid that is produced by controlled hydrogenation of the skin-restoring ingredient lecithin. It can be manufactured synthetically or may be derived from animals (egg yolk is a source) or plants.
Reported functions of hydrogenated lecithin in skin care and other personal care formulations include dispersing agent, skin-conditioning emollient, and emulsifier. As with other phospholipids, research shows it can enhance the penetration of other skin care ingredients in a formulation for greater efficacy. It is used in advanced active ingredient delivery systems like liposomes and micelles, which improve adsorption and penetration through the skin’s lipid barrier.
As a raw material, the appearance of hydrogenated lecithin can vary depending on the source. Descriptions range from a white to beige-gray powder appearance.
According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel’s 2020 safety assessment, the maximum reported concentration of use was 5% (for face and neck products). Any amount 15% or below was deemed safe for rinse-off and leave-on products.
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the safety data is insufficient for products containing hydrogenated lecithin that may be inhaled (such as sprays). As such, it is uncommon to find this ingredient in those types of products.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
International Journal of Toxicology, September 2020, pages 5S-25S []
-
Nanocosmetics, June 2019, pages 95–140 []
-
Current Drug Delivery, 2016, pages 111–120 []
-
Pharmaceutical Research, February 2013, pages 538–55 []
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Hydrogenated form of castor oil | Hard, waxy substance
Hydrogenated Coconut Acid
A saturated fatty acid derived from coconut oil, functioning as emollient and emulsifier
Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleyl/Dimethylcarbonate Copolymer
A polymer that stabilises emulsions and supports skin's protective barrier
Hydrogenated Lysolecithin
A plant-derived emulsifier that helps stabilise skincare formulations
Hydrogenated Lysophosphatidylcholine
A phospholipid-derived ingredient that cleanses and stabilises formulations
Hydrogenated Moringa Glucoside
A plant-derived cleansing agent that removes impurities without stripping the skin
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.