Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine

Best

Emollient

Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine at a glance

  • Ceramide precursor that helps improve skin barrier function
  • Boosts hydration by stopping moisture loss from skin’s uppermost layers
  • Can improve skin’s firm, plump appearance
  • Nudges skin to make more of its own ceramides naturally

Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine description

Hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganine is a ceramide precursor that helps improve skin barrier function and hydration. It has been proven to be effective for stopping moisture loss from skin’s uppermost layers. As a ceramide precursor (sometimes referred to as pseudoceramide), hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganine nudges skin’s uppermost layers to make more ceramides naturally. This is significant because ceramide-deficient skin is not able to retain moisture and keep its appearance firm and plump. In 2020, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganine is safe in cosmetics in the practices of use and concentration described in their assessment. Their report looked at products containing between 0.0025-0.062% (high concentrations of this ingredient aren’t necessary for efficacy).  This ingredient may be synthetic or derived from plants or animals.

Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine references

  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2020, pages 5S-25S
  • Drugs Context, April 2018, pages 1-14
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, March 2017, pages 243-247
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, July 2014, pages 177-184

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.