Ingredient glossary
Lecithin
On your shelf ✓What Lecithin does for your skin, who it suits, and what to watch for.
INCI: Lecithin
In short: Lecithin delivers emulsification and penetration enhancer, suits most skin types, and the evidence behind it is moderate.
- What it does
- Emulsification, penetration enhancer
- Best for
- Most skin types
- Evidence
- Moderate
The Glow take
Nice to have, and nothing to overthink.
Lecithin plays a quiet supporting role, rounding out a formula rather than being the reason you buy it.
— Maya
What it does
- emulsification
- penetration enhancer
- softening
moderate evidenceLong-standing use as a natural emulsifier and liposome former, with reasonable evidence that it increases penetration of what it carries. Unsaturated grades oxidise, which is why formulas pair it with an antioxidant.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- dry
- normal
Approach with care
- acne prone if heavy
- Clogs poresModerate
- Irritation riskLow
How it fits each skin type
- DrySuits
- CombinationSuits
- OilySuits
- SensitiveSuits
Take extra care if any of these apply to you: acne prone (in heavy layers).
Where it fits in your routine
Plays well with
- ceramides
- emollients
- emulsifiers
Lecithin, answered
Is Lecithin safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Lecithin is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As with anything, if you are unsure it is worth a quick word with your doctor or midwife.
Who should avoid Lecithin?
Approach Lecithin with care if any of these apply to you: acne prone (in heavy layers). It carries a moderate risk of clogging pores, so acne-prone skin should go carefully.
What concentration of Lecithin actually works?
Its concentration is rarely printed on the label, so use the ingredient list as your clue: near the top third it is likely doing real work, near the bottom it is more of a sprinkle.
This, for every label you own
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