What it is
Phytosphingosine is a sphingoid base, a building block of the skin's own ceramides and barrier lipids. Added to formulas it supports a healthy barrier, helps soothe skin, and has mild antimicrobial properties.
Safety & warnings
Used at low levels and generally very well tolerated, including by sensitive skin.
Origin & sourcing
A skin-identical lipid, produced for cosmetic use (often by fermentation).
Questions everyone asks
What does phytosphingosine do?
It is a skin-identical lipid that supports the barrier and helps calm skin.
Is it related to ceramides?
Yes, it is a building block the skin uses to make its own ceramides.