EWG Safety Score
What Is Sphingolipids?
Sphingolipids are complex, long chain lipids (fats) that function as skin-replenishing and conditioning ingredients. In layperson’s terms, this means they help maintain an intact skin barrier and prevent water loss, leading to healthier, smoother, more youthful-looking skin. They are a precursor to ceramides, and help skin make more ceramides, which are key to keeping it strong.\n\nThe name “sphingolipid” is in part derived from the term sphingoid, coined in 1884 by chemist J.
L. W. Thudichum because their enigmatic nature reminded him of the mythological sphinx.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
- American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, July 2021, ePublication [URL not available]
- Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, November 2017, pages 175-191 [URL not available]
- Journal of Allergy and Chemical Immunology, February 2017, AB87 [URL not available]
- Lipids in Health and Disease, January 2016, ePublication [URL not available]
- http://lipidlibrary.aocs.org/lipids/introsph/index.htm View Study
- Progress in Lipid Research, January 2013, pages 141-164 [URL not available]
- Skin Therapy Letter, July 2012, pages 6-9 [URL not available]
Published Research
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Vitamin K in cosmetic dermatology Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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Take the skin quizOther forms of Sphingolipids
These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Sphingolipids is the common form.
Related Ingredients
Phytosteryl Glucoside/Glucosylceramide
A plant-derived ceramide that helps restore and maintain the skin barrier
Sorbitan Distearate
A gentle emollient derived from sorbitol and fatty acids, commonly used to soften and condition skin
Sorbitan Palmate
A plant-derived emollient and stabiliser that helps bind water and oil in formulations
Soybean Glycerides
A plant-derived emollient that conditions and softens the skin barrier
Squalane
A lightweight emollient close to skin’s own oils
Squalene
Natural skin lipid for moisture and protection
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