What are Ceramides and their Benefits for Skin

Ceramides are lipids naturally found in the human body. So, why do you need ceramide-based products? It is because, as you age, your body cannot replenish ceramides as quickly as it did when you were young. So, synthetic, i.e., human-made ceramides, are added to moisturisers or other skincare products to give your skin the boost it needs. Let's deep dive a bit to understand ceramides better.

What are ceramides?

Your skin is divided into three layers: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. The epidermis, or outermost layer of your skin, functions as a shield against all environmental stressors; hence, it is known as the skin barrier. Now, 30 to 40% of this layer is made up of ceramides, natural lipids that form a protective barrier to keep moisture in and harmful things out.

When your skin barrier is strong with enough ceramides, your skin is less likely to get dry, irritated, or sensitive. As a result, ceramides are an important ingredient in many skincare products as they maintain skin balance while keeping it smooth and protected. 

Let's look at the key benefits of ceramides in skin care:

1. Supports Healthy Ageing: The natural production of ceramides in your skin decreases as you age. What does this mean for your skin? Weekend skin barrier, and skin becomes prone to signs of ageing. Topical application of ceramide-based products can replenish your skin's lipid barrier, improve elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This makes ceramides a valuable ingredient in anti-aging skincare products.
2. Soothes and Calms Irritated Skin: Ceramides possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or sensitive skin. If you are suffering from redness and discomfort due to various skin conditions, such as eczema or dermatitis, ceramides can help. Adding ceramides to your skincare routine can help restore your skin's natural balance and resilience. 
3. Reduces Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL): When your skin gets damaged, trans-epidermal water loss occurs. In this process, moisture evaporates from your skin, leading to dehydrated, dry, and irritated skin. One of the primary functions of ceramides is to prevent excessive water loss from your skin. Ceramides help to seal in moisture within the skin cell by reinforcing the lipid barrier. 
4. Prevents acne: Acne is a nightmare for everyone out there! As mentioned earlier, ceramides help maintain a healthy skin barrier and also balance skin moisture levels. Hence, they indirectly contribute to preventing acne. A well-maintained skin barrier reduces the likelihood of inflammation and bacterial infiltration, which are the main factors in acne development. 

 How do you incorporate ceramides into skin care?

Look for moisturizers specifically designed with ceramides as a key ingredient. Ceramide moisturizers can be a great addition to your skincare as they can replenish your skin barrier and lock in moisture. For best results, use them daily after your cleansing and exfoliating ritual.

Ever tried ceramide-based skincare, or are you thinking of giving it a try? We would love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to comment and share your experience with us.