Ingredient library

A naturally occurring sterol and the direct precursor to vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) via UVB photolysis. Found in the skin's sebaceous secretions and epidermis. In skincare, applied topically as a barrier-supporting lipid and functional emollient; it behaves similarly to cholesterol in supporting lamellar body structure and skin-barrier integrity. Used in K-beauty formulas targeting compromised or sensitive skin.

A C20 saturated fatty acid naturally occurring in peanut oil, fish oils, and skin lipids, used as an emollient and barrier-supportive ingredient in skincare formulations.

Extract from the dried rhizome of Atractylodes lancea (Asteraceae), used in TCM as Cangzhu. Principal bioactives are atractylodin (polyacetylene) and sesquiterpenoids β-eudesmol, hinesol, and atractylon, which inhibit 5-LOX and COX-1 inflammatory pathways and support epidermal barrier function. Appears in premium Korean Hanbang formulations paired with other TCM-derived actives for barrier reinforcement and anti-inflammatory benefits.

A plant sterol (phytosterol) structurally analogous to cholesterol that supports the skin's lipid barrier, reduces inflammation, and soothes sensitive skin.

A synthetic sphingolipid analogue developed by Evonik (trade name Ceramide III B analogue), consisting of an isopropanol backbone with two capryloyloxy-palmitamido chains that mimic the structure of ceramide III/NP.

Bletilla striata (Bai Ji) is a terrestrial orchid native to East Asia whose dried tubers have been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to stop bleeding and promote tissue healing. The root extract is valued in premium K-beauty formulations for its high polysaccharide content — primarily glucomannans — delivering both film-forming humectancy and meaningful barrier repair, supported by pharmacological research confirming fibroblast activity stimulation.

A plant sterol fraction isolated from Brassica campestris (rapeseed/canola). Phytosterols like rapeseed sterol support the skin's lipid bilayer structure and help maintain the integrity of the stratum corneum, making them useful in barrier-repair formulas. Found in 111SKIN Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask.

Phytosterols derived from rapeseed that reinforce the skin's lipid barrier by filling intercellular gaps and reducing transepidermal water loss.

A proprietary calcium salt of phosphorylated oligosaccharides used in Minon Amino Moist formulas. Clinical studies show it stimulates ceramide production in keratinocytes, reinforcing the skin's moisture barrier — especially beneficial for dry, sensitive, and atopic-prone skin types.

A generic term for ceramide lipids — the primary lipid component of the skin's stratum corneum. When used as an INCI ingredient without a specific number designation, typically indicates a ceramide complex. Essential for skin barrier integrity.

Ceramide AG is the INCI name for Ceramide 6-II, characterized by an alpha-hydroxy fatty acid (A) and dihydrosphingosine (G). One of the naturally occurring ceramides in the stratum corneum. Used in multi-ceramide formulations (Matsuyama Hadauru, Kiku-Masamune, Ishizawa) to restore barrier.

A barrier ceramide that works best alongside other ceramides.

A ceramide class containing an alpha-hydroxy fatty acid bonded to a sphingosine base (alpha-hydroxy fatty acid + sphingosine). Present naturally in the outer layers of human skin and contributes to the intercellular lipid lamellar structure. Typically paired with Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, and Cholesterol in barrier repair formulations.

A long-chain ceramide important to barrier structure.

A skin-identical ceramide (N-acylated sphinganine; formerly ceramide 2) that reinforces the lamellar lipid barrier to reduce transepidermal water loss and soothe dry, flaking skin.

A skin-identical lipid that rebuilds the barrier.

One of the nine ceramide classes found naturally in human skin (non-hydroxy fatty acid + sphingosine base). Works synergistically with other ceramides and cholesterol to form the intercellular lipid matrix of the stratum corneum. Used in barrier-repair moisturizers alongside Ceramide NP and Ceramide AP.

A synthetic pseudo-ceramide (ceramide analog) developed by Kao (used in Curél) that mimics the structure of natural ceramides to replenish barrier lipids, improve water retention, and soothe dry, atopic skin.

Chitosan is a linear polysaccharide derived by partial deacetylation of chitin (found in crustacean shells, insect exoskeletons, and fungal cell walls). The degree of deacetylation determines its cationic charge density — cosmetic-grade chitosan is 75–90% deacetylated. Its cationic nature gives it substantive affinity for skin, excellent film-forming properties, and antimicrobial activity. Used in Korean skincare as a barrier-supportive, skin-conditioning, and gentle anti-microbial active.

A key barrier lipid that works synergistically with ceramides.

A cholesterol ester of hydroxystearic acid that mimics the skin's natural lipid composition. Used in premium Japanese moisturizers to reinforce the stratum corneum barrier and restore hydration.

The succinate half-ester of cholesterol. Cholesterol is a critical structural component of the skin's lamellar lipid bilayers, maintaining fluidity and barrier integrity. The succinate modification improves water dispersibility compared to free cholesterol, enabling its use in O/W emulsion systems. Commonly included in ceramide-complex formulas alongside Ceramide NP and free fatty acids for a multi-component barrier repair effect.

A proprietary ceramide-analogue lipid used in Real Barrier formulations, consisting of a dihydroxyisopropyl backbone with palmoyl-palmamide chains that integrate into the skin's intercellular lipid matrix.

An extremolyte that helps protect skin against environmental stress and supports the barrier.