In Praise of Cholesterol

While everyone talks about “good” and “bad” cholesterol, it seems like this waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in all cells of the body is pretty much considered the devil incarnate. But the Truth is that cholesterol is an important biological substance not only undeserving of its evil reputation, but arguably the most valuable and functional molecule in the body.  Cholesterol is a critical element of the cell’s outer covering (the membrane) and helps give it both structure and fluidity and is needed for the production of anti-aging hormones as well as those that help build tissue and manage stress.  It’s a raw material for the production of vitamin D, which is crucial for bone and teeth health, and to maintain a healthy and positive mood. And despite the images of a greasy plate of bacon and eggs that the word may conjure up, cholesterol is essential for beautiful skin. 

If we take a close look at the outer layer of skin, the stratum corneum, it can be imagined as being composed of cells and grout -- proteins, fats and cholesterol which act as a type of biological brick and mortar, protecting sensitive tissue underneath and keeping water from leaving the skin. Young healthy skin has thick mortar with no cracks, producing skin that is firm, plump and smooth. Cholesterol also acts like “hydrating sponges,” attracting and locking moisture into skin, and enhancing its own natural moisture factors, which results in a dewy and radiant complexion. 

Cholesterol in the skin acts as a raw material for anti-aging hormones like estrogen and progesterone; as we age, the skin’s cholesterol levels decrease making the skin look and feel thinner with lines, wrinkles and dryness.  And cholesterol plays a critical role in the development of the stratum corneum, assuring that it’s healthy and resilient and able to perform its protective functions.

What’s more, using cholesterol topically can help create healthier skin. According to research published in the December, 1983 issue of The Lancet, topical cholesterol can be used to treat ichthyosis the medical diagnosis for excessively dry skin. In January, 2012 scientists from South Korea writing in the Journal of Dermatological Science showed that topically applied cholesterol could have sun protection benefits. And, in a 2014 article from the journal of Experimental Dermatology, scientists from Japan demonstrated that application of cholesterol to allergy-prone skin achieved “favorable effects on reducing contact sensitivity.”   

Yet, cholesterol’s secret healing power has remained largely unknown and has not been leveraged in topical products -- until now. In addition to containing super-high concentrations of a moisturizing form of Vitamin C as well as essential fats, my Truth Treatments Omega 6 Healing Cream is formulated with a potent dose of cholesterol, which, in addition to supporting skin moisturization and helping relieve dry skin, also helps calm and protect against sun damage, heal minor cuts and abrasions, relieve redness, quiet irritation, soothe chapped lips, ease wind burn, and soften seriously parched skin on the heels, elbows and cuticles.  

Thanks,
Ben