Ingredient · dataset v56
Phytosphingosine and fungal acne
May trigger · Limited evidence
Why it's a potential trigger
An 18-carbon sphingoid base in the size range Malassezia yeast absorbs and burns.
Honest paradox: lab tests stop this yeast only at 0.63%, far above cosmetic doses — lower doses stimulated its growth instead (Nenoff 2002). At label levels this reads as food, not antifungal.
Evidence strength
Limited evidence (1/3)
Function
Sphingolipid
Products without this ingredient
- DERMA E Sun Protection Mineral Powder SPF 30
- Torriden Dive In Toner 300 ml
- Noble Formula Argan Oil 2% ZnP Bar Soap (Vegan)
- AHAVA Dead Sea Water Mineral Shower Gel 6.8 oz
- Differin Maximum Strength Acne Foaming Cleanser (Benzoyl Peroxide 10%)
- FragFre Hair Styling Gel, Medium Hold, Sensitive Skin 8 fl oz
Sources
- Nenoff & Haustein 2002 — phytosphingosine stimulates Malassezia at low doses (Acta Derm Venereol)
- EU CosIng database — search the INCI name
Last reviewed: 2026-10-13 (dataset v56).
Questions
Does Phytosphingosine trigger fungal acne?
We flag it as a potential trigger (limited evidence). That means it belongs to a class the Malassezia yeast is known to feed on — not that every product with it will cause a flare. Concentration, formulation and individual skin chemistry matter.
Does Phytosphingosine feed Malassezia?
Yes: we flag Phytosphingosine as a potential trigger (limited evidence). It belongs to a class Malassezia is known to feed on — not a claim that every product with it causes a flare. Concentration, formulation and individual skin chemistry matter.
How confident is this call?
Limited evidence: An 18-carbon sphingoid base in the size range this yeast absorbs and burns.
Is this medical advice?
No. We screen ingredient lists; we never diagnose, treat, or certify products. When in doubt, ask a dermatologist.
Check a full list containing Phytosphingosine →
Not medical advice: we screen ingredient lists for potential triggers — we never diagnose, treat, or certify products. Dataset v56.