What it is
Cholesteryl Isostearate is an ester formed from cholesterol and isostearic acid, a branched fatty acid. Because cholesterol is a natural component of the skin's lipid barrier, esters of this type are valued as emollients that help condition the skin and contribute to the texture and stability of the oil phase. It is used in creams, milks, and pressed formulations to improve spreadability and skin feel.
Safety & warnings
Cholesteryl esters of this kind are generally well tolerated and non-irritating in cosmetic use. They are skin-identical lipid relatives and are considered low risk for sensitization.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic ester produced by combining cholesterol with isostearic acid; cholesterol may be of animal or synthetic origin.
Questions everyone asks
Is this related to cholesterol in skin?
Yes. It is an ester of cholesterol, a lipid naturally present in the skin barrier, combined with a branched fatty acid for use as an emollient.
What does it do in a formula?
It acts as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, improving texture, spreadability, and the feel of the product on skin.