Lysolecithin

Good

Cleansing Agent

No known benefits

Lysolecithin at a glance

  • Primarily used as an emulsifier with other fatty acids
  • Has mild cleansing properties
  • Can be a key part of cosmetic ingredient delivery systems
  • Obtained via hydrolysis of barrier-repairing ingredient lecithin

Lysolecithin description

Lysolecithin is a fatty acid-derived ingredient made by acid, enzymatic, or other methods of hydrolysis of lecithin, a key barrier-repair ingredient for skin. This form of lecithin is primarily used as an emulsifier alongside other fatty acids, vitamins, plant extracts, and glycols. Lysolecithin plays a role in encapsulated delivery systems wherein the compound breaks down over time, releasing its contents into skin’s uppermost layers. This can provide several benefits, such as enhancing hydration via prevention of water loss and helping to visibly repair skin’s barrier. Low amounts of lysolecithin (0.05–0.075%) are used in cosmetics as part of a blend, so it doesn’t take much of this ingredient to have a positive impact on the formula and, in turn, skin. Due to its close relation to lecithin and hydrogenated lecithin, lysolecithin is considered safe for skin.

Lysolecithin references

  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2020, Supplement 2, pages 5S–25S; and January 2001, Supplement 1, pages 21–45
  • Cosmetics, October 2019, pages 1–10

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.