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LECITHIN

Last update on Feb 4, 2023
Lecithin is a magical ingredient that helps improve the texture of both the products as well as the surface that it is applied to. It is basically an emollient that also acts as a penetration enhancer - allowing the products to perform better. In its raw form, Lecithin appears as a yellow-brownish substance that can be in the shape of thick granules, fine powder, or flowy liquid. Further, this ingredient is gluten-free and contains vitamin E which is beneficial for treating damaged skin and hair. The chemical formula of Lecithin is C35H66NO7P.
CAS Number: 8002-43-5 / 8030-76-0 (soybean)Chem/IUPAC Name: Lecithins. The complex combination of diglycerides of fatty acids linked to the choline ester of phosphoric acidEINECS/ELINCS No: 232-307-2 / 310-129-7COSING REF No: 34995

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What is LECITHIN used for?

Lecithin has many benefits for the skin and hair. It is added to many personal care and cosmetic products such as serums, toners, creams, and foundations.
  • Skin care: It acts as an emollient that has the ability to soften the skin and strengthen its natural barrier to lock in hydration. Lecithin is good for extremely dry skin and lips
  • Cosmetic products: It is a great emulsifying agent and binds different ingredients together in a formulation for a better textured product. It makes the cosmetic products extremely hydrating and provides a rich feel to it

Origin

Lecithin is a natural ingredient that can be derived from many foods such as eggs, sunflower seeds, and, most commonly, soy. This ingredient is often a byproduct while making vegetable oils. Further, Lecithin can also be made from animal sources.

What does LECITHIN do in a formulation?

EMOLLIENT|
EMULSIFYING

Safety Profile

Lecithin is a safe ingredient as it is natural and does not have any side effects. There are no use restrictions in rinse-off products, however, in leave-on products the recommended use percentage is 1.5%. Lecithin suits all skin and hair types - it is especially beneficial for dry ones. However, it should generally be avoided if your skin is prone to acne. Further, limited data shows no risks of the use of Lecithin during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

LECITHIN alternatives

LECITHIN technical profile

Property Values
Boiling Point 603.7°C
Melting Point 231°C
pH 7.4
Solubility Partly soluble in water