Cholesterol

Cholesterol (CAS 57-88-5), also marketed under trade names such as Tegolan, Super Hartolan, and Nimco Cholesterol Base No. 712, is a sterol derived primarily from lanolin or animal sources.

In industry, it functions as an emulsifier, moisturizing agent, and membrane-stabilizing component across pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. In topical pharmaceutical preparations, it is used to stabilize water-in-oil emulsions.

This material enhances skin penetration of active ingredients. Cosmetic formulators incorporate it into creams, lotions, and hair conditioners where it reinforces the lipid barrier and improves moisture retention in the finished product.

It is a critical excipient in liposomal drug delivery systems, where it controls membrane fluidity and structural integrity of lipid vesicles. In veterinary and specialty nutritional applications, it serves as a precursor or reference standard.

The product is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder or flakes. Standard grades include pharmaceutical-grade (USP, BP, Ph. Eur.) for drug and excipient use, and cosmetic-grade material for personal care.

High-purity grades exceeding 95% and 99% are commercially available to meet the specification requirements of liposomal and injectable formulation processes. These standards ensure reliability across diverse industrial applications.