CAS number 8002-43-5
INCI name lecithin
Lecithin is a versatile ingredient that enhances both product texture and skin or hair application. Acting as an emollient and penetration enhancer, it boosts absorption and efficacy. Naturally, it appears as a yellow-brownish substance in granules, fine powder, or liquid form. Gluten-free and rich in vitamin E, lecithin supports skin and hair repair. Its chemical formula is C₃₅H₆₆NO₇P.
Purpose
Lecithin is both an emollient and an emulsifier, helping to retain moisture, soften skin, and enhance product absorption. It also stabilizes oil and water blends, ensuring smooth, consistent formulations in skincare and haircare products.
Origin
Lecithin is a naturally occurring ingredient sourced from various foods, including eggs, sunflower seeds, and, most commonly, soy. It is often obtained as a byproduct of vegetable oil production and can also be derived from animal sources.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Lecithin |
| Type | Natural Emulsifier & Surfactant |
| Source | Derived from soybeans, sunflower seeds, egg yolks, and other plant/animal sources |
| PH | 6-8 |
| Color | Yellow to brown |
| Odor | Mild, characteristic fatty odor |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water, soluble in oils and alcohols |
| Physical state | Viscous liquid, powder, or granules |
| Boiling Point | 603.7°C |
| Concentration | 0.1%–5% |
| Chemical Properties | Amphiphilic, biodegradable, non-toxic |
Emollient Properties
Lecithin softens and smooths the skin by forming a protective barrier that locks in moisture, improving skin texture and hydration. It also supports the skin’s natural barrier, promoting overall skin health.
Emulsifying Ability
Lecithin stabilizes oil and water mixtures in creams, lotions, and serums, preventing separation and ensuring consistency. It contributes to a luxurious texture and enhances the sensory experience during application.
Natural Origin
Sourced from soybeans, sunflower seeds, eggs, and animal fats, it is a natural compound that provides an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to synthetic emulsifiers.
Nutrient-Rich Composition
Rich in phospholipids and vitamin E, this helps maintain cell integrity, improves hydration, and protects the skin and hair from damage. It also has anti-aging benefits by reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Multiple Forms and Versatility
Lecithin is available in granules, powder, or liquid form, making it adaptable for various product types, from thick creams to light lotions and dry powders.
Gluten-Free and Safe for Sensitive Skin
Naturally gluten-free, this is gentle on sensitive skin, reducing the risk of irritation and making it suitable for products intended for babies or those with skin conditions like eczema or rosacea.
Penetration Enhancer
Lecithin boosts the absorption of active ingredients, improving the effectiveness of skincare products by allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin.
Mild and Non-Irritating
Lecithin is gentle and non-irritating, making it ideal for sensitive skin and formulations designed to soothe and calm irritation.
Environmental and Sustainability Aspects
Lecithin, particularly plant-based lecithin, is considered sustainable and eco-friendly, as it is often a byproduct of vegetable oil extraction and can be sourced from non-GMO or organic crops.
Applications of Lecithin
- Skincare Products – Lecithin is widely used in moisturizers, creams, and serums due to its emollient properties. It helps hydrate and soften the skin, improve texture, and enhance the absorption of other active ingredients, making it a key ingredient in anti-aging and nourishing skincare formulations.
- Haircare Products – In shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks, lecithin works as a natural moisturizer, improving hair texture, reducing frizz, and promoting shine. It also enhances the absorption of nutrients, helping to restore and maintain healthy hair.
- Cosmetic Formulations – Lecithin is used in makeup products like foundations, lipsticks, and creams to provide smooth, blendable textures. It stabilizes formulations and prevents separation, ensuring products remain consistent.
- Food Industry – Lecithin is commonly used as an emulsifier in food products such as chocolate, margarine, and salad dressings. It helps blend ingredients, improves texture, and extends shelf life. It’s also found in baking, where it enhances dough consistency and helps improve the final texture of baked goods.
- Pharmaceuticals – Lecithin is used in the pharmaceutical industry as an emulsifier in liquid formulations, capsules, and topical treatments. It helps improve the bioavailability and effectiveness of certain drugs by enhancing absorption in the body.
- Nutritional Supplements – Lecithin is commonly included in supplements, particularly those for brain health and heart health. Its phospholipids, particularly phosphatidylcholine, are believed to support cognitive function and liver health.
- Baby Products – Due to its gentle, non-irritating nature, lecithin is often found in baby skincare products, such as lotions, oils, and ointments, to moisturize and protect delicate skin.
- Industrial Applications – Lecithin is also used in various industrial applications, including as a dispersing agent in paints, coatings, and adhesives. It helps improve texture and consistency in these products.
