Glycolipids

Other names: Glycolipids

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Glycolipids, also known as glycolipids, are fats that contain sugars. They form an important part of cell membranes and play a key role in cell function and stabilization. They are able to interact with proteins, allowing a signaling pathway between the cell and its surroundings, thus promoting communication and interaction between cells. The structure of glycolipids is highly variable, allowing a wide range of applications.

In industry, glycolipids are mainly used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. As they are able to bind water, they are used as a moisturizing ingredient in many skin care products, for example in moisturizing creams and serums or body lotions. Due to their stabilising properties, they are also used in products that are designed to protect the skin from harmful external factors such as the sun or cold. In the pharmaceutical industry, glycolipids are used in medicinal products, such as suppositories or ointments, where they help medicinal substances penetrate deeper into the skin.