At a glance
- CAS number
- 554-62-1
- INCI name
- Phytosphingosine
- Function
- antimicrobial, skin-identical ingredient, barrier repair, anti-inflammatory
- Typical use level
- 0.05%–0.2%
- Solubility
- oil
- Stable pH
- 5–7
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
4-Hydroxysphinganine t-C18 Phytosphingosine Tetrahydrosphingosine PS
Compatibility
Works well with:
Ceramides Cholesterol Fatty Acids Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Glycerin
Use caution with:
High concentrations of anionic surfactants
Phytosphingosine is best incorporated into the lipid phase of emulsions and pairs synergistically with ceramides and cholesterol to reinforce the skin barrier in a physiologically relevant ratio. It can be destabilized or its efficacy reduced when combined with high levels of anionic surfactants. Keeping formulation pH between 5.0 and 7.0 supports both stability and optimal skin-barrier function.
Formulation notes
Phytosphingosine is a naturally occurring sphingolipid found in the uppermost layers of human skin where it plays a key role in maintaining the epidermal permeability barrier. It exhibits intrinsic antimicrobial activity against a range of bacteria and fungi, making it useful as a mild preservative booster in addition to its barrier-repair benefits. Formulators use it in moisturizers, anti-aging serums, and products targeting sensitive or compromised skin, typically at low concentrations (0.05–0.2%) due to its potency and relatively high cost.
Frequently asked questions
What is Phytosphingosine?
Phytosphingosine is a antimicrobial, skin-identical ingredient, barrier repair, anti-inflammatory used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 0.05%–0.2%. It is oil-soluble. Stable in the pH 5–7 range.
What is Phytosphingosine used for?
Phytosphingosine is used as antimicrobial, skin-identical ingredient, barrier repair, anti-inflammatory in cosmetic and personal-care formulations.
What is the typical use level of Phytosphingosine?
Phytosphingosine is typically used at 0.05%–0.2% in the finished formulation. Always confirm against your supplier's technical data sheet.
What is the CAS number of Phytosphingosine?
The CAS registry number for Phytosphingosine is 554-62-1. Its INCI name is Phytosphingosine.
At what pH is Phytosphingosine stable?
Phytosphingosine is generally stable in the pH 5–7 range.
What ingredients are compatible with Phytosphingosine?
Phytosphingosine works well with Ceramides, Cholesterol, Fatty Acids, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin. Use caution when combining it with High concentrations of anionic surfactants.
Related ingredients
- Ceramide NPActive
- EctoineActive
- Azelaic AcidActive
- Salicylic AcidActive
- Tranexamic AcidActive
- Zinc PCAActive