Phytosterols are a common ingredient in a human diet. They are compounds found in vegetables and plants and lauded for their ability to minimise the absorption of cholesterol. But that is not all. Plant sterols are an important factor in keeping our skin healthy.
What are phytosterols?
Phytosterols are plant sterols. They are plant molecules derived from various plant foods. The most notable source of plant sterols are different vegetable oils like safflower, sesame, soybean, but they are also present in nuts and seeds (pumpkin, cashew, etc.)
Why are phytosterols important?
Their molecular structure is similar to cholesterol, which plays an important role in keeping our skin healthy. Sterols are an essential part of the skin’s stratum corneum or the lipid barrier (they make up over 15% of the horny layer of the skin). The main function of the lipid barrier is to prevent bacteria and infection from penetrating the skin. It protects us against environmental stressors and prevents moisture loss.
However, cholesterol can be irritating to the skin when applied topically. In some cases, it can lead to inflammation and acne. Phytosterols, on the other hand, are well tolerated by the skin. When applied topically, they imitate the function of cholesterol.
What are the benefits of phytosterols for the skin?
The benefits of phytosterols for the skin are plentiful, and it should come as no surprise they are used extensively in skincare and hair products.
Phytosterols can:
– reduce inflammation.
– help with moisture retention and prevent Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL).
– repair damaged moisture barrier.
– protect the skin against UV rays and photoaging.
– help improve hyperpigmentation.
– keep the skin soft and supple.
– stimulate Hyaluronic acid and collagen production.
Ishtar products that contain phytosterols
Multi-Ceramide Concentrate
A light fluid to help restore and protect the natural lipid barrier. It is suitable for all skin types that experience problems due to a compromised lipid barrier. It can be used as a serum or a moisturiser.
What does it do?
Soothes and moisturises the skin. It protects the skin against environmental stressors and helps the skin’s natural shedding process.
What’s in it?
A phytosterol complex that includes plant-derived, but skin-identical cholesterol, stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol, and campesterol.
Organic White Tea extract contains high levels of antioxidant compounds.
A complex of plant-isolated ceramides (Ceramide 3, 3-II, 6, and 6-II). Ceramides are lipids found in cell membranes that make up 50% of the horny layer of the skin. They improve the structure of collagen and elastin, minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protect the skin.
Glycosphingolipids stimulate fibroblast, soften, soothe, and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Time CODE Moisturiser
A light moisturiser that rejuvenates the skin, counteracts photoaging, minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Time CODE combines elasticity boosting Copper PCA with Ectoin to deliver a Copper Optimised Dermal Extremolyte (C.O.D.E.). Extremolytes are unique molecules that stabilise biological structures. It is suitable for normal and mature skin.
What’s in it?
Copper PCA acts as a “super” antioxidant, soothes redness, and regulates the moisture in the skin.
Ectoin in our formula is botanically derived and helps prevent UVA photoaging, soothes inflammation, improves hydration.
Plant phytosterols help maintain a healthy skin barrier, while Hydrolysed Glycosaminoglycans hydrate the skin.
