Cholesterol

Cholesterol (CAS 57-88-5) is a naturally derived sterol obtained primarily from animal sources such as lanolin or spinal cord tissue. It is also known under trade names including Lanol, Dythol, Dastar, and Cholesterin, and carries no assigned E-code. It is classified under HS code 29061300.

In personal care formulations, cholesterol functions as an emulsion stabilizer by integrating into lipid bilayer structures, improving membrane integrity and reducing droplet coalescence. In pharmaceutical topical preparations, it acts as a skin conditioner and emollient by replenishing intercellular lipids in the stratum corneum, supporting barrier repair and moisture retention.

Cholesterol is available in pharmaceutical and cosmetic grades as a white to faintly yellow crystalline powder, with quality benchmarks including Ph.Eur. and USP/NF monographs. It is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU. Standard packaging formats include fiber drums and polyethylene-lined bags, with documentation available upon request.