C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters

What is C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters?

C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters is a cosmetic ingredient consisting of esters formed by reacting cholesterol—a sterol found in animal tissues—and lanosterol—a precursor sterol from wool wax—with fatty acids containing 10 to 30 carbon atoms. These medium-chain esters mimic components of the skin's natural lipid barrier. Primarily appearing in moisturizers, creams, and lotions, it functions by depositing a protective film on the skin to enhance softness and flexibility. As a viscosity controller, it thickens formulations for better spreadability and stability. Its emulsifying properties help blend oil and water phases evenly, preventing separation and ensuring smooth textures in emulsions like body butters and serums.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Supports skin softness and smoothness through conditioning action.

Enhances product texture by adjusting thickness for easy application.

Promotes stable emulsions for consistent lotion and cream performance.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking smoother skin texture from daily moisturizers.
Those with known allergies to wool-derived ingredients.
Users of thick creams needing improved spreadability.
People sensitive to sterol-based compounds.
People preferring non-comedogenic emollients in formulations.
Individuals avoiding animal-derived cosmetic components.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by environmental working group assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters

What does C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters do in skincare?

It conditions skin for softness, controls product thickness, and stabilizes oil-water mixtures.

Is it safe for daily use?

Yes, it carries a low safety rating with minimal concerns for typical cosmetic concentrations.

Does it cause acne?

No, its comedogenic rating is zero, making it unlikely to contribute to breakouts.