Ceramides
Also known as: Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Phytoceramides
Overview
Ceramides are lipids that make up over 50% of the skin's barrier. They are essential for retaining moisture and protecting against environmental damage. Topical ceramides help restore a compromised skin barrier, making them ideal for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin.
How Ceramides Works
Ceramides form the 'mortar' between skin cells (corneocytes) in the stratum corneum. When ceramide levels are depleted (through aging, harsh cleansing, or skin conditions), the barrier weakens, causing moisture loss and irritation. Topical ceramides integrate into the lipid matrix, restoring barrier function and reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
Benefits
- • Restores and strengthens the skin barrier
- • Reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL)
- • Soothes dry, irritated, and eczema-prone skin
- • Complements active ingredients that can compromise the barrier (retinol, AHAs)
- • Improves overall skin resilience and hydration
Side Effects & Cautions
- • Extremely well tolerated — side effects are very rare
- • Some formulations containing ceramides may include comedogenic co-ingredients
Who Should Use Ceramides
Anyone with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin. Excellent for eczema-prone skin, those using retinol or exfoliating acids, and post-procedure recovery.
Who Should Avoid It
No known contraindications. Suitable for all skin types.
Recommended Concentration
Effective at low concentrations (0.5-3%). Best combined with cholesterol and fatty acids in a physiological ratio.
Scientific Evidence
2 peer-reviewed studies cited. All links lead to PubMed abstracts.
Ceramides are essential for skin barrier integrity. Topical application restores barrier function in compromised skin.
Ceramide-containing moisturisers significantly improved atopic dermatitis symptoms and reduced TEWL.
Top Ceramides Products We've Reviewed
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, Lightweight Hydrator for Skin Barrier Support & Hydration, 100ml
The Ordinary
CeraVe Moisturising Cream, Face & Body, With 3 essential ceramides & hyaluronic acid, For dry to very dry skin, 454 g/16 oz
CeraVe
Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion, 236ml, Face & Body Moisturiser, For Normal To Dry Sensitive Skin, With Niacinamide, Packaging May Vary
Cetaphil
AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 CREAM with Ceramide, Korean Moisturiser, Korean Skincare, 120-Hour Hydrating Visible Capsule Moisturizer, Facial Cream for Dry & Sensitive Skin, Dermatologist Tested, 80mL
AESTURA
Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Face Moisturiser, 88ml, For Sensitive Skin, With Hyaluronic Acid, Packaging May Vary
Cetaphil
L'Oreal Deutschland Roche Posay 15293769 Tol Sens Fluid, 40 g
L'Oreal
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M Anti-Breakout Corrective Gel Moisturiser For Oily, Blemish-Prone Skin 40ml
PURITO Oat In Calming Gel Cream, Oat Seed Water, Lightweight Non-Sticky Moisturizer, Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Korean Skincare, 100ml 3.38 fl.oz
PURITO
e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! Hydro-Gel Moisturiser, Lightweight Face Moisturiser For Promoting A Bouncy & Plump Complexion
e.l.f.