.jpg "What is ceramide? Here's what you need to know about skin-saving ingredients.")
We know that adding all the new skincare ingredients to your beauty routine seems like a lot, but trust us when we say it's worth it. They're essential for keeping your skin barrier at its best so you stay glowing and acne-free. Sounds perfect, doesn't it?
If you're wondering where the skin-protecting ingredient fits into your niacinamide serum and retinol cream, we've explained what ceramides actually are, how they can benefit your skin, and when to use them in your daily routine. Obviously the experts.
Ready to expand your ceramides range? Go this way...
What is ceramide?
Hero material has been getting a lot of attention on social media lately and for all the right reasons. “They are natural lipids and an important part of our skin barrier,” explains dermatologist Christina Somadakis.
He explains that there are dozens of essential ceramides, but three have received special attention. “The ceramides most associated with improving dry skin are 1, 3, and 6-II (referred to as AP ceramide on many INCI lists),” he says.
Ceramides, found in a serum or moisturizer, “build lamellae, which is essentially a protective barrier between our skin cells that helps protect the skin from infection by maintaining levels of bacteria, allergens, and moisture,” explains Dr. Soumadakis.
It may be difficult to understand, but try to imagine the structure of the building (take it from me); "You often hear the 'bricks and mortar' analogy: 'The bricks are our skin cells surrounded by a solution of free fatty acids, cholesterol and ceramides,'" he adds.
He says that topical application of ceramides can have serious benefits for the skin.
How do ceramides benefit the skin?
Ceramides are naturally found in our skin, so you know they're supposed to be good, but how do they support skin barrier health?
"Ceramides help reduce transepidermal water loss, so they help retain moisture, protecting the skin from flaking and dryness. As part of their role in skin barrier function, ceramides protect the skin from damage and inflammation and also have some antimicrobial properties." Soumadakis explains. If you're overusing acidic exfoliants (no judgment here), a soothing, ceramide-rich exfoliant can get rid of any irritation or redness.
Another good thing about Jyramid? It's a vodka made with skin-loving ingredients, which means it pairs well with any skincare cocktail you make. Unlike vodka, ceramides do not cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
"Because they are naturally present in the skin, they are non-irritating ingredients that are universally accepted. By helping to retain moisture, the skin maintains a plump and youthful appearance," adds Dr. Somadakis.
Many trendy skincare ingredients shouldn't be used if you suffer from eczema, for example, but ceramides have become popular for acting as a comfort blanket for your skin.
"Ceramides are very beneficial for people with skin problems; dry skin conditions like eczema are associated with ceramide depletion, so replenishing your natural reserves with products containing ceramides can be very restorative. This applies to a damaged skin barrier." “Temporary or as part of a chronic disease,” says Dr. Soumadakis.
What ingredients can ceramides be mixed with?
Unlike some ingredients that have to be replaced to add to your diet, ceramides blend well with other ingredients so you don't have to tap into any of your resources.
“You can use ceramides with stronger active ingredients to soften their harsh effects and reduce irritation, such as acids or retinol,” says Soumadakis.
It can make skin moisturizers more effective; “Ceramides can work with other lipids, such as fatty acids and cholesterol, to increase skin hydration, or with other hydrating or soothing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, colloidal oatmeal, and glycerin,” she adds.
Unlike some other essential ingredients in skincare, ceramides can be used daily or as often as your skin needs them; No need to rest.
Is there anything ceramides can't do? We don't think so.
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