Long story, short
- Ceramides are lipid molecules that make up 50% of the skin’s protective barrier, acting like the ‘glue’ that holds skin cells together and locks in moisture while keeping pollutants and bacteria out.
- Natural ceramide production starts declining around age 30, contributing to dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles — topical replenishment helps maintain elasticity and smooth the skin’s surface.
- These lipid powerhouses are particularly beneficial when used alongside Retinol or other potent Retinoids, as ceramides counteract potential barrier disruption and reduce dryness.
- Apply ceramide products after cleansing — in moisturisers, serums, or masks — for optimal absorption and barrier support throughout the day or night.
Ceramides have rightly earned a place as one of the skincare ingredient superstars, helping to strengthen and support the skin barrier to myriad benefits. Here’s everything you need to know…
What Are Ceramides?
Ceramides are lipid molecules found naturally in the skin. These skin-identical lipids keep its appearance firmer and plumper, form 50% of the protective layer of oils and waxes that limit skin moisture loss, and are essential for optimal barrier function. Think of ceramides as the glue that holds your skin cells together.
What Do Ceramides Do?
Ceramides work almost like a natural ‘cement’, restoring and strengthening the barrier of your skin to keep moisture in and pollution and other environmental stressors out. The lipid layer locks in moisture and acts as a barrier against pollution, dehydration and bacteria.
What are the benefits of Ceramides in skincare?
Ceramides are an anti-ageing powerhouse responsible for supporting the skin’s dynamic nature. Here’s just a few reasons to incorporate ceramides into your skincare routine…
They Enhance Skin Barrier Function
One of the primary benefits of ceramides is their ability to strengthen the skin barrier. A robust skin barrier is essential for protecting against environmental aggressors like pollutants and toxins. When the barrier is compromised, your skin becomes more susceptible to irritation, dryness, and infections.
Ceramides Improve Hydration
Ceramides are hydration powerhouses. By locking in moisture, ceramides prevent water loss from the skin’s surface, making them particularly beneficial for those with dry or dehydrated skin.
Ceramides Reduce Signs of Ageing
Around the age of 30, we start to produce fewer ceramides naturally, leading to dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles. By topping up the skin’s ceramide levels through topical application, you can help to smooth fine lines and maintain the skin’s elasticity.
Ceramides Soothe Irritated and Sensitive Skin
For those with sensitive or reactive skin, ceramides can be a game-changer. These lipid molecules help to calm and soothe irritation, redness, and inflammation by reinforcing the skin barrier, making ceramides an excellent choice for individuals with conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.
Ceramides Support Acne Treatments
A recent study found that ceramides can be extremely beneficial used in conjunction with acne treatments like Benzoyl Peroxide and Retinoids. Results found that using a moisturiser containing ceramides can significantly reduce dryness and resolve barrier damage — fast.
Which step of your skincare routine should Ceramides come in?
Any of the steps which follow your cleansing step. Ceramides work well in moisturisers, like our Happy Face™ Extreme Relief Cica Moisture Cream, and deep-moisture masks like Japanfusion Bio-Ceramide Moisture Mask. These lipid powerhouses also work well in serums, and are a great addition to Retinol products because ceramides counteract the potent nature of Retinoids by strengthening and supporting the skin’s barrier.
Try our Superactive Ceramide Capsules Essential Ceramides for a perfectly portable delivery of skin-identical doses of Sphingo-and-Glycolipids, which help support your natural ceramide production, for longer-lasting moisture and dewier, glowier skin.
