Glycine Soja Sterols are natural plant sterols derived from soybean oil (Glycine max). These sterols are known for their emollient and skin-conditioning properties, making them valuable ingredients in various cosmetic formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure

The chemical composition of Glycine Soja Sterols includes:

• Plant Sterols: Phytosterols that resemble cholesterol in structure and can help improve skin barrier function.
• Fatty Acids: Derived from soybean oil, contributing to the moisturizing and nourishing properties.

Structurally, Glycine Soja Sterols consist of a mix of sterol compounds that provide a lipid-like profile beneficial for skin health.

Physical Properties

• Appearance: Typically a white to off-white powder or waxy solid.
• Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in oils and organic solvents.
• pH: Neutral, typically around 6-7 in formulations.
• Odor: Mild, characteristic of plant-derived ingredients.
• Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions but should be protected from light and moisture.

Production Process

• Extraction: Glycine Soja Sterols are obtained from soybean oil through a process that may include saponification and subsequent purification.
• Purification: The crude sterols are further purified to isolate the desired compounds, removing any impurities or unreacted materials.
• Formulation: The purified sterols are incorporated into cosmetic formulations, often combined with other moisturizing agents for enhanced performance.

Applications

• Medical: Limited use in formulations aimed at repairing and moisturizing damaged skin.
• Cosmetics: Commonly included in lotions, creams, and hair care products for their emollient and conditioning effects.

INCI Functions:

Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment by restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants.

Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss. Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.

• Industrial Uses: Occasionally utilized in formulations for natural products.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Glycine Soja Sterols are generally regarded as safe for topical application in cosmetics when used according to recommended guidelines. They are well-tolerated by most skin types, but individuals with allergies to soy should exercise caution. Responsible sourcing and production practices are essential to ensure that the sterols are free from harmful contaminants and produced sustainably.

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