Lecithin
A cosmetic ingredient used as antistatic, skin conditioning, skin conditioning - emollient in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Lecithins. The complex combination of diglycerides of fatty acids linked to the choline ester of phosphoric acid
What does it do?
Lecithin is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Antistatic
reduces static electricity, mostly in hair products to keep strands smooth and manageable
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Skin conditioning
improves the appearance, feel, and condition of skin
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Skin conditioning - emollient
softens the skin by reducing roughness and friction between skin cells
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Surfactant - emulsifying
surfactant that forms and stabilises emulsions of oil and water — without it, creams and lotions would separate
EU regulatory status
Lecithin is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Lecithin?
Lecithin is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Lecithins. The complex combination of diglycerides of fatty acids linked to the choline ester of phosphoric acid
Is Lecithin allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Lecithin is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Lecithin do in cosmetic products?
Lecithin is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antistatic, skin conditioning, skin conditioning - emollient, surfactant - emulsifying.
What is the CAS number of Lecithin?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Lecithin is 8002-43-5 / 8030-76-0 (soybean).
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010