Whether you're battling dry or rough skin, signs of aging, or even acne, ceramides are a safe for the skin and may offer solution for these skin issues.
You've likely heard the buzz about ceramides, particularly with the popularity of skincare brands like CeraVe. But what exactly are they, and why should you consider incorporating them into your skincare routine?
Read on to find out.
Ceramides are lipids that help to protect the skin barrier. It helps to keep the skin looking moisturized and prevents skin dryness. Just as collagen is found naturally in the skin, so are ceramides.
However, factors like aging, over-exfoliation, and exposure to oxidative stress can deplete the ceramides found naturally in the skin. To combat this loss, you can apply ceramides topically to boost moisture levels and prevent the skin from cracking.
Ceramides can also be found in many skincare products, like face cleansers, serums, toners, and moisturizers.
Ceramides are great moisturizers and have tons of benefits for the skin, such as hydration and helping the skin retain moisture. A study showed that ceramide-based creams, formulated to mimic the skin's natural barrier, provide longer-lasting hydration compared to other moisturizers.
Ceramides also help to reduce the signs of skin aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Other benefits of adding ceramides to your skincare routine include:
Ceramides are the main type of fat found in the layers between the cells of the stratum corneum, which is the outermost part of the skin. These layers work together to create a strong barrier, protecting the skin from external elements.
Since ceramides are the main part of the fats between skin cells and help retain moisture, they are essential for long-term relief from dryness and reduced skin sensitivity.
While the type and structure of ceramides determine their specific function, their main role is to help the stratum corneum retain water.
There are two main types of ceramides: natural and synthetic. Both types function similarly to protect the skin barrier and prevent water loss.
Scientists also classify ceramides based on the type of chemical compound called sphingosine and the fatty acid that binds to it. The 12 types of ceramides are:
When using a ceramide moisturizer, here's a simple step-by-step process you can follow:
For enhanced effectiveness, ceramide moisturizers should be used twice daily, in the morning and at night.
The following should be taken into consideration when purchasing products containing ceramide:
More products contain ceramides, but this is a short list of some popular ones. Dermatologists have tested and approved them, and they are skin-safe.
There aren't any known side effects of ceramides, or if there are, would be in rare cases. Although, as with any skincare product, it is important to know if you are allergic to the ingredients. To be safe, always perform a patch test before applying a new product to your face.
Aside from generously using ceramides topically, it is best to pair them with foods rich in ceramides, like eggs and poultry, dairy products, sweet potatoes, leafy vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, that help promote the production of natural ceramides and deeply nourish the body.
How often should ceramides be used?
Is it safe for pregnant women?
Can it be combined with other skincare products?