By: Zayna Azimi

 

Phospholipids might ring a bell from your high school biology class—they're the MVPs of every cell membrane in the body. These powerful molecules have made their way into skincare, and for good reason. Phospholipids are the go-to for hydration, boost your skin barrier, and to deliver those active ingredients.

Let’s break down why your skin is totally obsessed with them.

What Are Phospholipids?

Phospholipids are molecules made up of two parts: a water-loving (hydrophilic) head and a water-repelling (hydrophobic) tail. You can think of phospholipids as someone holding an umbrella. The umbrella is taking in all the water while the person is staying dry at all costs. This unique structure allows them to form protective layers around cells—like the ultimate skin shield. Naturally found in our bodies, phospholipids help maintain moisture and support cell structure.

In skincare, they work similarly: strengthening the skin barrier, boosting hydration, and improving the absorption of other active ingredients. 

 

Why They’re a Skincare Staple

• REINFORCE the skin barrier to defend against environmental stressors

• HYDRATES by drawing in moisture and locking it down 

• DELIVER active ingredients deeper into the skin by mimicking our natural lipid layers

• SOOTHE and calm sensitive or irritated skin by reducing inflammatory signal pathways

 

Where to Find Them in Your Routine

Cleansers: Gentle, phospholipid-infused cleansers help wash away dirt without disturbing your natural barrier. Look for non-foaming formulas that leave your skin feeling soft.

→ Paula's Choice Skincare Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser

→ Hourglass Cosmetics Equilibrium Transformative Cleansing Balm

Serums + Moisturizers: Phospholipid-based serums and creams are ideal for restoring bounce and barrier strength since they mimic your skin’s own structure.

→ BiotechBeauty®’s BiomeBounce®

→ The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

 

Insane in the membrane!

 

XO,

BiotechBeauty®