What it is
N-Stearoyl Phytosphingosine is a ceramide built on a phytosphingosine backbone linked to stearic acid, mirroring a class of lipids found in the skin barrier. It is used to condition the skin and complement its natural lipid composition, contributing to a smooth, comfortable finish. In sun care it appears at low levels in the lipid phase of barrier-supporting formulas.
Safety & warnings
This ceramide is generally well tolerated, is not a recognized fragrance allergen, and is used at low levels. It is widely considered low-irritation and appropriate for sensitive-skin products.
Origin & sourcing
Phytosphingosine is commonly obtained via yeast fermentation, and the finished ceramide is produced to a defined structure rather than extracted from skin.
Questions everyone asks
What is phytosphingosine?
It is a sphingoid lipid building block, often made by fermentation, that forms the backbone of this skin-conditioning ceramide.
How does it differ from other ceramides?
It uses a phytosphingosine backbone (Ceramide NP type), one of several ceramide structures found in the skin's lipid matrix, used here for conditioning.