Ingredients
What are ceramides and what do they do?
Ceramides are lipids that fill the spaces between cells in the outermost layer of skin. Like mortar between bricks, they hold the skin barrier together, keeping moisture in and irritants out.
At a glance
- Best for
- Dry, sensitive, tight-feeling skin; people using retinol and acids; eczema-prone skin
- Typical strength
- Effect depends less on one percentage and more on combining them with cholesterol and fatty acids
- When
- Morning and evening, at the moisturiser step
- Pairs well with
- Cholesterol and fatty acids, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, retinol
- Caution
- No known restriction
What are ceramides?
Ceramides make up about half of the lipids in the top layer of skin (the stratum corneum). Together with cholesterol and free fatty acids they form a layered structure between cells. Age, cold weather, harsh cleansers and overuse of actives weaken this structure. Cosmetics mostly use skin-identical forms such as ceramide NP, AP and EOP.
Benefits for skin
Ceramide products fill gaps in the barrier, reducing water loss and easing tightness, flaking and stinging. Skin with a strong barrier copes better with the environment and with strong actives. Research shows ceramides work better when combined with cholesterol and fatty acids in ratios close to the skin's own.
How to use them
Ceramides are mostly found in moisturisers. Use them morning and evening after cleansing and serums. If you use retinol or acids, a ceramide moisturiser is the easiest way to reduce irritation; if you get dry, applying a thin layer before retinol also helps.
Things to watch out for
Because ceramides are part of skin's own structure, the risk of irritation is very low and they can be used in pregnancy. If you have a problem, the cause is usually fragrance or another ingredient in the formula. If you have a condition such as eczema, ceramide care supports your treatment but does not replace it.
Frequently asked questions
Are ceramides good for oily skin?
Yes. Oily skin can have a damaged barrier too, especially when using drying acne products. Light, gel-textured ceramide moisturisers work well on oily skin.
Can you use ceramides with retinol?
Yes, it is actually recommended. Ceramides balance the dryness and irritation retinol can cause.
How do you know your skin barrier is damaged?
Frequent stinging, burning, tightness, flaking, every product hurting and unusual redness are typical signs. Pause actives and go back to a gentle cleanser and a ceramide moisturiser.
This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have a skin condition, are pregnant or take regular medication, talk to a dermatologist before starting a new active ingredient.
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