Super Sterol Liquid

Super Sterol Liquid, a skin-like emollient

Super Sterol Liquid is a clear, colorless, medium-viscosity oily liquid made in Japan, with almost no odor. It is a C10-30 sterol ester, made from lanosterol and related sterols, and it belongs to the family of sterol esters, which are often obtained from lanolin and used as skin-friendly emollients. It dissolves in oils and is added to the oil phase. The smallest pack is 0.33 oz (10 mL).

Why sterol esters feel different

Ordinary oils and esters soften skin, but they do not resemble the lipid mix of the skin surface. Sterols and their esters are natural parts of the skin's own lipid barrier, so this material gives a cushioned, substantive feel, good adhesion and a velvety afterfeel. It helps reduce the dry, tight sensation that comes with cold weather or frequent washing, and in liquid form it is much easier to handle than pasty lanolin derivatives.

Use level

The supplier gives a typical level of 2 to 10%. In anhydrous products it can go much higher, up to the full oil phase.

Where to use it

Night creams and barrier-style creams for dry and mature skin benefit from the rich, skin-like feel. In lip balms and glosses it adds gloss, cushion and longer-lasting comfort. Rich hand creams and foot balms are classic uses, and hair oils can use it for a smoother feel on dry lengths.

Processing and partners

Add it to the oil phase of an emulsion or blend it into an anhydrous base. It pairs well with ceramide NP in barrier creams and with cosmetic jojoba oil in balms and facial oils. For a plant lipid alternative, Lipexel is another oil-phase active for dry skin. Explore more emollients in our cosmetic actives section.