Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your skin naturally produces. In skincare, it works as an emollient, meaning it softens and smooths your skin by filling in gaps between cells. It also helps products stay stable and keeps them from separating, which is why you'll find it in creams and lotions. Because it's something your skin already knows, it tends to be gentle and plays well with other ingredients. It won't do anything dramatic, but it's a solid workhorse for keeping formulas together and your skin feeling comfortable.