We've heard about ceramides a lot more lately, so what exactly is that and why should I use this ingredient?
What are ceramides?
Ceramides are a family of lipids that make up ~50% of the epidermis (the outer skin layer), forming the natural skin barrier.
They are naturally produced within a cell through 3 major pathways - de novo synthesis, sppingomyelin hydrolysis and the salvage pathway.
However, as we age and are exposed to more sun and harsh climates, our skins cannot produce these natural ceramides as quickly. Lower ceramides levels can also be linked to skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. These lower ceramide levels can result in a compromised skin barrier.
Benefits of ceramides
Ceramides play a critical role in structuring and maintaining the water permeability barrier function of the skin. In other words, they help to maintain the moisture in your skin whilst keeping harmful elements out.
Skincare products generally use synthetic ceramides to replenish the reduction in naturally producing ceramides. They are usually formulated to contain lipids identical to those in human skin - in order to give your skin a boost and restore its skin barrier.
How do I look for products with ceramides?
There are 12 types of ceramides but the three most common types are:
- Ceramide 1 (or ceramide EOS)
- Ceramide 3 (or ceramide NP)
- Ceramide 6-II (or ceramide AP)
Other skin benefiting ceramides that you might see are:
- Ceramide 2 (or ceramide NS or NG)
- Ceramide 9 (or ceramide EOP)
- Phytosphingosine.
- Sphingosine.
What other ingredients work well with ceramides?
Look for ingredients like:
- Dimethicone
- Colloidal oatmeal
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Shea butter
As ceramides are also very helpful in balancing your skin barrier, they also go well with easing any potential reactions to retinoids.
