How Soy Lecithin Enhances Beauty Products
Soy lecithin is renowned for its benefits in skincare. This beauty aid’s name (lecithin) is derived from the Greek work lekythos, or egg yolk since French chemist Theodore Gobley first isolated it in 1845 from egg yolk. Soybeans are the major contributor of lecithin, which is why the two words are paired frequently. Chemically, soy lecithin closely resembles the body’s natural phospholipid cellular membrane, so it readily established itself as a natural form of cellular repair. Learn more about personal care ingredient supplier Bell Chem’s soy lecithin below.
Lecithin is composed primarily of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids (60%-70%) with a smattering of proteins and carbohydrates – the three major components needed by the human body. This unique combination easily transitions from the epidermis to deep within the skin where it metabolizes a reaction to form new skin cells. Here are some of the roles it plays in beauty products:
Antioxidant
By protecting epidermal and dermal cells from oxidation, soy lecithin enhances and increases cell life spans due to its stores of vitamin E. This leads to soy lecithin being a key ingredient in primer and foundations, face cleansers and masks, body lotions, and lip glosses and balms to soothe irritated skin and lips.
Emulsifier
By acting as a stabilizer within an environment of oil and water, soy lecithin binds these two opposing types of molecules together to create a product with equal amounts of ingredients with each use.
Humectant
Soy lecithin’s humectant capabilities maintain hydration in skin cells, which preserves the integrity of skin cells and aids in creating a stronger physical barrier between the body and the atmosphere.
Hydrator
Dehydration can give skin a dull, cracked appearance and cause itching and soreness. Overall, the skin appears uneven in tone and the face’s complexion may appear dull. Acting as a hydration agent, soy lecithin prevents water loss to the epidermal and dermal cells, plumping the cells and restoring an even skin tone with fewer flakes, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Moisturizer
Soy lecithin delays or even counteracts water loss to the environment since it contains both oleic and linoleic acid, which adhere to water molecules. This maintains a healthier level of moisture within the skin. This excess moisture acts as an emollient, softening and smoothing the skin’s surface and beneath by binding with the body’s natural skin protein, keratin.
Nail Care
Dry, brittle nails break and crack, causing undue pain. Soy lecithin’s moisturizing action helps nails retain their structural integrity.
Viscosity Agent
The bonding action of soy lecithin creates a thicker, creamier product for skin care consumers.
Bell Chem is a personal care ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including soy lecithin. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.