Ceramides in skincare
Ceramides are a natural, fundamental part of skin that helps maintain precise hydration levels, for a smooth, even skin surface. They’re critical for holding skin together, functioning like bricks and mortar. This protects the skin from dehydration, signs of sensitivity, and environmental damage at skin’s protective surface. Ceramides are the most abundant part of skin, making up over 50% of its composition.
As we age, or by exposing our skin to the sun, the level of ceramides in our skin begins to decrease. As a result, the skin barrier weakens, which can lead to symptoms like irritation, dryness, and redness. Skincare products that contain ceramides can help improve these symptoms.
Ceramides may be derived from plants or from animal or human skin. Animal-derived ceramides have the ability to not only to moisturize the skin, but to help repair the skin barrier. Plant ceramides do not have this reparatory ability. Nowadays, ceramides can be synthezied in a lab with all the properties like animal-derived ceramides.
Ceramides in skincare
By adding ceramides to skincare products, the skin barrier can be strengthened, and the moisture levels of the skin can be improved. This will result in a smoother, more even, softer and firmer skin with less irritation.
Ceramides become the most effective when combined with other skin-identical ingredients like amino acids, glycerin and cholesterol. This lipid mix improves skin tone and texture and reduces skin irritation. For optimal skin improvement, combine with antioxidants, retinol, niacinamide and peptides.
Who needs ceramides in their skincare routine?
Ceramides are ’skin-identical’ ingredients, which means they are similar to skin’s own building blocks. This make them optimal for alla skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone or oily skin. They are also well suited to use around the eyes.
How do I know if my products contain ceramides?
Look in the ingredients list for words like ceramide AP, EOP, NG, NP or NS. Phytosphingosine and sphingosine are ceramide precursors that make the skin produce ceramides.
Can I combine ceramides with acids?
Ceramides are excellent to combine with AHA and BHA. The exfoliating effect of the acids get rid of old skin cells and make the ceramides penetrate more readily in the skin.