The term “skin barrier” gets thrown around a lot — read our article on that here. Today, we’re focusing on ceramides, the other word that comes hand-in-hand with skin barrier protection. We discuss why ceramides are a must-have for achieving a nourished and protected complexion.
Check out the rest of our “Decoded” series.
What are ceramides?
They are natural lipids, or fats, that are found in the outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum. They play a crucial role in the skin’s barrier function, keeping moisture locked in and protecting against external irritants. Think of them as the “bricks” that hold the skin cells together. They form a protective barrier that shields skin from environmental stressors and helps retain essential hydration.
View this post on Instagram
A brief history
We can’t talk about ceramides without mentioning two prominent skincare brands from opposite ends of the globe. Over the years, Cerave and Dr. Jart have played significant roles in popularising ceramide-infused skincare products.
Cerave was one of the pioneering brands to introduce this particular ingredient into skincare products in the West. In collaboration with dermatologists, they developed formulations specifically designed to help restore and strengthen the skin barrier. Over in Asia, Dr. Jart, a Korean skincare brand, introduced ceramide-infused products to the market, emphasising the remarkable benefits of these lipids for the skin.
View this post on Instagram
Sources in skincare
- Plant-Based: Often sourced from ingredients like rice, wheat, soybeans, or konjac. These plant extracts contain ceramides that are structurally similar to those found in human skin.
- Synthetic: Laboratory-produced versions that mimic the structure and function of natural ceramides. Skincare formulations incorporate these synthetic versions, which are designed to be highly stable and effective.
- Animal-Derived: Some skincare products derive ceramides from animal sources, such as cow or pig skin. Manufacturers process and purify these animal-derived ceramides to ensure their safety and efficacy.
It’s important to note that different skincare brands may use ceramides from different sources. It’s always a good idea to check the product labels or consult with the brand directly if you have specific concerns or preferences.
How it works
Ceramides actively prevent moisture loss from the skin. They strengthen the skin barrier, creating a protective seal that actively locks in moisture. This results in plump, smooth, and supple skin.
Maintaining overall skin health is key to a healthy skin barrier. Ceramides actively reinforce the skin’s protective barrier, protecting against pollution and harsh weather conditions. They work to reduce redness, itchiness, and discomfort. This makes them highly beneficial for individuals with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin conditions.
Our favourite picks
We hoped this helped in learning what are ceramides. We cannot live without them in our beauty line up. Did you find any of your favourites on our list? Let us know which formulas you’ve tried! We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
