Equi Lipida: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Equi Lipida?

Equi Lipida is the purified fat obtained from horses, Equus caballus. Like other animal-derived fats it is made up mostly of triglycerides that supply a mix of fatty acids such as palmitic, oleic and stearic acids. These fatty acids are similar to those naturally present in our own skin’s lipid layer, which helps explain its popularity in topical care.

Animal fats have been used for skin care since ancient times, and horse fat has long held a place in traditional grooming products in parts of Europe and Asia. Modern cosmetic chemists refined the material to remove scent, color and impurities, turning it into a consistent ingredient now labeled as Equi Lipida on ingredient lists.

Production starts with carefully sourced horse adipose tissue. The fat is rendered at controlled temperatures, then filtered and deodorized. Further purification steps eliminate proteins and contaminants, leaving a clean, semi-solid lipid that can be blended smoothly into creams and emulsions.

Formulators add Equi Lipida to rich moisturizers, barrier repair creams, hand balms, night creams, anti aging formulas, facial masks, lip care sticks and some foundations where extra emollience is desired.

Equi Lipida’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In cosmetics Equi Lipida serves a single but valuable role: skin conditioning. By replenishing lipids similar to those in our own skin, it softens rough patches, helps lock in moisture and leaves a supple, comfortable feel. Products containing Equi Lipida can therefore improve overall hydration, support the skin’s protective barrier and give a smoother appearance.

Who Can Use Equi Lipida

Equi Lipida works best for normal, dry or mature skin that needs extra lipid support. Its rich texture can feel heavy on very oily or acne-prone skin, so those users may prefer lighter alternatives.

Because this material is derived from horses it is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians who avoid animal-based ingredients. Ethical or religious considerations related to animal by-products may also influence individual choice.

No data indicate that Equi Lipida poses a specific risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically at cosmetic levels. This is not medical advice, and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show any prospective skincare product to a qualified doctor before adding it to a routine.

The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is odorless and colorless after purification, making it a generally agreeable option for those without ethical or skin type concerns.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Equi Lipida vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects, though most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is properly formulated.

  • Clogged pores or breakouts in individuals already prone to acne
  • Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness, itching or rash
  • General irritation on very sensitive or compromised skin
  • Unpleasant odor or product spoilage if the fat oxidizes over time
  • Rare contamination issues if the fat was not fully purified during manufacture

If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for advice.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 3 / 5. Equi Lipida is rich in long-chain saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids that can linger on the skin and mix with sebum, which raises the likelihood of blocked pores compared with lighter, faster-absorbing oils. While many people tolerate it without issue, those prone to acne or frequent breakouts may find it too occlusive. Its performance also depends on the overall formula: paired with high levels of waxes or butters, the clogging potential increases, whereas in a well-balanced emulsion it may feel less heavy. Oxidation can thicken the fat over time and make it more pore-clogging, so fresh, well-preserved products are preferred.

Summary

Equi Lipida is a skin-conditioning lipid that replenishes lost surface fats, enhances moisture retention and leaves dry skin softer and more resilient. It does this by mimicking the fatty acid profile of the skin’s own barrier, filling gaps between skin cells and slowing water loss. Despite these benefits its use is fairly niche today, mainly showing up in specialty creams, hand balms and certain Asian beauty products; many brands favor plant oils to sidestep ethical or consumer preference concerns.

The ingredient is generally safe for topical use when properly purified, with only a low incidence of irritation or allergy, though its moderate comedogenicity can be a drawback for oily or acne-prone skin. As with any new skincare product, perform a small patch test before full-face application to ensure individual compatibility.

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