What it is
Hydrogenated lysolecithin is produced by enzymatically converting lecithin to lysolecithin and then hydrogenating the unsaturated fatty acid chains. The hydrogenation improves oxidative stability compared with native lecithin, making it useful as a gentle, biocompatible emulsifier. It helps stabilize oil-in-water systems and can support the delivery and even spreading of other ingredients.
Safety & warnings
Hydrogenated lysolecithin is generally well tolerated and is used at low levels as an emulsifier. Because it is typically derived from soy, individuals with soy sensitivities may wish to be aware of its origin, though the highly processed phospholipid retains little intact protein.
Origin & sourcing
It is derived from lecithin, most commonly sourced from soybeans or other plant oils, which is enzymatically modified to lysolecithin and then hydrogenated to saturate the fatty acid chains.
Questions everyone asks
What does hydrogenated lysolecithin do in a sunscreen?
It works as a gentle emulsifier that helps blend oil and water phases and can aid the even distribution of other ingredients across the skin.
How is it different from regular lecithin?
It is enzymatically modified to lysolecithin and hydrogenated, which improves its emulsifying behavior and oxidative stability relative to native lecithin.