Sphingolipids at a Glance
- Long chain skin-replenishing + conditioning lipids
- Help skin make more ceramides
- Prevent water loss
Sphingolipids Description
Sphingolipids are complex, long chain lipids (fats) that function as skin-replenishing and conditioning ingredients. In layperson’s terms, this means they help maintain an intact skin barrier and prevent water loss, leading to healthier, smoother, more youthful-looking skin. They are a precursor to ceramides, and help skin make more ceramides, which are key to keeping it strong.
The name “sphingolipid” is in part derived from the term sphingoid, coined in 1884 by chemist J. L. W. Thudichum because their enigmatic nature reminded him of the mythological sphinx.
Sphingolipids References
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, July 2021, ePublication
Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, November 2017, pages 175-191
Journal of Allergy and Chemical Immunology, February 2017, AB87
Lipids in Health and Disease, January 2016, ePublication
http://lipidlibrary.aocs.org/lipids/introsph/index.htm
Progress in Lipid Research, January 2013, pages 141-164
Skin Therapy Letter, July 2012, pages 6-9