Ceramides make up approximately 50% of the lipids present in the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum ) – a percentage that speaks volumes about their importance. These essential lipids act as a true protective shield, helping to maintain a healthy skin barrier. They defend you from aggressive external factors, reduce moisture loss and help your skin stay balanced, smooth and comfortable.
Are you struggling with dry, sensitive or easily irritated skin? One of the hidden causes could be a decrease in ceramide levels – a natural phenomenon that occurs with age. And the consequences are quickly felt: a feeling of skin that "sticks", redness, discomfort or a dull appearance.
Fortunately, this lack of ceramides can be compensated for. Introducing a ceramide cream into your routine can help restore optimal hydration, while also fading visible signs of aging, such as fine lines. And a ceramide serum is suitable even for sensitive skin, having a calming and repairing effect.
Are you wondering if the results are confirmed? A study conducted in 2021 demonstrated that the constant use of products containing ceramides can protect the skin even from the harmful effects caused by UV radiation – further proof of their remarkable effectiveness.
In this article, you will discover what ceramides are, how they work, what benefits they offer, and how you can correctly integrate them into your routine to enjoy visibly healthier, more supple, and more resilient skin in the face of daily challenges.
What are ceramides and why are they essential for the skin?
Ceramides are essential lipid molecules that make up about 50% of the lipids that make up your skin's natural barrier. These waxy fats are found in high concentrations in cell membranes and are the main component of the epidermis. Together with cholesterol and free fatty acids, they form the protective layer of your skin, which is organized into a dense lamellar structure.
The role of ceramides in the skin barrier
Have you ever wondered what keeps your skin hydrated and protected, day after day, from pollution, wind and other aggressive factors? The main function of ceramides is to act as a gatekeeper between your skin and the external environment. They act like a "mortar" that holds the "bricks" of the epidermis cells together, maintaining cell cohesion and forming an impenetrable protective barrier. Thus, they prevent excessive moisture loss and prevent harmful irritants, toxins and microorganisms from entering the body.
When ceramides are present in optimal amounts in your skin, they:
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Keeps the skin hydrated, preventing dehydration and peeling
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Strengthens the skin's natural barrier
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Provides protection against pollutants, bacteria and other harmful environmental factors
When ceramide levels decrease, the stratum corneum becomes compromised and small cracks can appear in the skin. Through these cracks, irritants and pathogens can penetrate more easily, causing inflammation and various skin problems.
Don't just think about your facial skin when you think about care. Your body skin deserves the same attention. You can opt for a body cream with ceramides CERAMIDE BODY LOTION , ideal when you want to feel your skin deeply hydrated from head to toe.
Natural decrease in ceramides with age
Unfortunately, as you age, ceramide levels in your body naturally decrease. The aging process, prolonged sun exposure, climate change, the use of harsh cleansers, and even certain drug treatments can all lead to a decrease in the amount of ceramides in your skin.
In addition, a ceramide deficiency also occurs due to:
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Aggressive skin cleansing routine
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Diet low in fatty acids
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Certain drug treatments for lowering cholesterol
The consequences of this decrease are obvious: the skin becomes drier year after year, loses its elasticity and signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles appear more quickly.
What is the connection between ceramides and sensitive skin?
Low ceramide levels are associated with various skin conditions, such as:
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acne,
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eczema,
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psoriasis
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rosacea.
Dermatological research shows that people with such conditions have low levels of ceramides in their skin.
For sensitive skin, ceramides are true allies. When the skin barrier is compromised, it becomes more vulnerable to environmental stressors, such as pollution and irritants. Therefore, introducing ceramides into your skincare routine can help sensitive skin become more resilient and less prone to irritation.
Although they were originally used to treat eczema in medicated creams and ointments available in pharmacies, ceramides are now present in numerous cosmetic products. Even oily skin can benefit from products with ceramides, as they do not clog pores and help maintain the skin's natural balance.
Types of ceramides and their specific functions
In modern dermatology and cosmetics, ceramides are not all the same – there are several types, each with a well-defined role in maintaining skin health. Knowing these differences helps you choose the right products and better understand how ceramides contribute to balanced, hydrated and protected skin.
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Natural vs. synthetic ceramides
There are two main categories of ceramides found in skin care products.
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Natural ceramides
These are the ones your body naturally produces. They form the outer layer of your skin, but their production declines significantly as you age. Your skin contains up to nine different types of natural ceramides, each with specific functions determined by their chemical structure. In addition to those produced by the human body, natural ceramides can also be obtained from sources such as beef or plants such as soybeans.
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Synthetic ceramides (or pseudoceramides)
They are the laboratory-created alternative. Due to their superior stability compared to natural versions, they are the favorites of cosmetic manufacturers. Although they are artificially created, synthetic ceramides perform the same functions as natural ceramides, being even more effective in certain situations. Moreover, they can be customized to present specific properties, adapted to various cosmetic products.
For certain conditions like eczema, synthetic ceramides are becoming increasingly popular as a treatment option. They also provide optimal results when combined in a 1:1:1 ratio with cholesterol/beta-sitosterol and free fatty acids.
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Ceramide NP, AP, EOP: what they do and where you can find them
Of the 12 types of ceramides listed, a few are particularly important for your skin care:
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EOS Ceramide (Ceramide 1) - contributes significantly to maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier
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Ceramide NS/NG (Ceramide 2) - commonly used in face and neck products
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Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3) - ideal for dry and irritated skin
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Ceramide AP (Ceramide 6-II) - recommended for treating sensitive and irritated skin
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Ceramide EOP (Ceramide 9) - helps restore the skin's natural barrier
The seemingly complicated names of ceramides derive from a coding system based on their chemical structure. The letters N, A, O, S, P, and H represent the different structural components of these molecules.
How can these ceramides help dry, irritated skin?
Choosing ceramide products depends a lot on the specific needs of your skin. Thus, for dry and irritated skin, specialists recommend products containing EOS, NP or AP ceramides. We recommend a ceramide serum - ANUA RICE 7 CERAMIDE HYDRATING BARRIER SERUM which contains ceramide NP and is suitable for all skin types.
For face and neck care, ceramides 2 and 3 are most suitable.
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Phytosphingosine and sphingosine as active precursors
At the heart of all ceramides are two essential components: phytosphingosine and sphingosine. These are actually the precursor substances from which complete ceramides are formed.
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sphingosine
Ceramide is a natural compound produced by the body, made up of special fats and a nitrogen-containing component. In the skin, it is formed naturally from two substances – palmitoyl-CoA (a type of fatty acid) and serine (an amino acid). These go through several chemical steps, and in the end, sphingosine – a molecule essential in the structure of ceramides – results. These steps occur in a controlled and precise manner, so that the skin maintains its healthy and effective protective barrier.
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Phytosphingosine
It acts as an active ingredient that stimulates the natural production of ceramides in the upper layers of the skin. When looking for products with ceramides, it's worth checking for the presence of these precursors as well, as they can help your skin produce more ceramides on its own.
Additionally, these active ingredients work best when combined with other components of the skin barrier, such as phospholipids or cholesterol. Also, adding antioxidants to ceramide product formulas prevents their oxidation, maximizing the benefits for your skin.
What are the scientific benefits of ceramides for the skin?
Recent scientific research has demonstrated the importance of ceramides for the health of your skin. Beyond their structural role, these lipids offer multiple benefits, confirmed by dermatological studies that recommend them for all skin types:
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Reduces transepidermal water loss
One of the most important benefits of ceramides is their ability to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL). When the skin barrier is compromised, water from the inner layers of the skin evaporates more easily, leading to dehydration. Ceramides form that “mortar” between cells that limits this moisture loss. By applying products with ceramides, you can significantly reduce the evaporation of water from your skin, thus maintaining optimal hydration.
Studies show that formulas containing over 8% type E ceramides significantly improve skin water content and relieve symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
What do we recommend? Creams with a high concentration of ceramides that work as effective emollients, with proven beneficial effects on the skin's barrier function. A very effective ceramide cream is TOCOBO MULTI CERAMIDE CREAM which contains 5 types of ceramides and 3 types of hyaluronic acid for intense skin hydration.
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Strengthens the skin's barrier against pollutants
Ceramides not only maintain hydration, but also strengthen the skin's natural barrier against harmful external factors. This barrier acts as the first line of defense against pollution and toxins, protecting you from their harmful effects.
Experts recommend moisturizing products containing ceramides precisely for their ability to reduce the potential for pollutants to penetrate skin cells, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Therefore, using serums and creams with ceramides helps protect yourself from daily urban pollution.
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Blurs fine lines and wrinkles
As we age, ceramide levels in the skin naturally decline, contributing to the appearance of signs of aging. Ceramides help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles through two main mechanisms:
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Maintaining optimal hydration - well-hydrated skin looks younger and fuller, with wrinkles being less visible.
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Stimulating lipid production - ceramides can reduce free radicals that degrade elastin and collagen, preventing metabolic processes that lead to premature aging.
Due to their water-retaining properties, ceramides prevent moisture loss from the skin, giving it a firmer and more elastic appearance. Research also shows that ceramides can stimulate cellular function and help maintain overall skin health.
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Soothes inflammation and redness
Ceramides also have a strong anti-inflammatory effect, making them ideal for soothing irritated skin. They reduce redness, discomfort and help with conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis or rosacea, where their levels are often low. By strengthening the skin barrier, ceramides block the penetration of irritants and allergens, preventing inflammatory reactions. Regular use of products with ceramides can reduce inflammation and visibly improve the appearance of the skin, especially in the case of sensitive skin.
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Protects against UV rays
A clinical study published in April 2021 in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology evaluated the effectiveness of a skin care routine that includes moisturizer and sunscreen with ceramides in preventing skin barrier damage induced by ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Study summary:
Researchers investigated the impact of UV exposure on skin barrier integrity and evaluated the effectiveness of a skin care routine that included sunscreen and ceramide moisturizer. The study was conducted on 16 healthy participants, aged 18 to 50, and involved controlled exposure of the skin to UV radiation, followed by application of the tested products.
The study's conclusions:
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Daily application of sunscreen and ceramide moisturizer reduced UV-induced erythema and hyperpigmentation.
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The products improved skin hydration and maintained normal morphology of superficial skin cells after UV exposure.
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Products containing ceramides can provide additional benefits in your daily skin care routine, strengthening the skin barrier and improving overall skin health against sun exposure.
In addition, products with ceramides and SPF not only improve skin hydration, but also reduce redness and hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure. Therefore, for complete protection, it is recommended to use products with ceramides and sunscreen, especially in the hot season.
How to properly integrate ceramides into your daily routine?
To get the most out of ceramide products, implementing them correctly into your daily skincare routine is just as important as the ingredients themselves. Here's how you can effectively incorporate these essential lipids into your skincare routine.
Application order: serum, cream, SPF
The golden rule for applying skincare products is to go from the most fluid to the thickest. So, follow this order:
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facial cleansing; 2. ceramide serum; 3. moisturizer; 4. sunscreen.
This order ensures optimal penetration of the active ingredients into the skin.
For optimal results, we recommend starting your routine with:
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a gentle cleanser containing ceramides; 2. day moisturizer with SPF in the morning; 3. moisturizing lotion in the evening.
Applying moisturizers with ceramides to damp skin maximizes moisture locking into the skin.
Combining ceramides with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants
Ceramides work great in combination with other beneficial ingredients.
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Hyaluronic acid intensifies the moisturizing effect, acting synergistically with ceramides for more hydrated and plump skin.
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Antioxidants, such as vitamin C or E , provide additional protection against environmental factors and prevent the oxidation of ceramides.
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Retinol or peptides , indicated for mature skin, improve elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
These combinations simultaneously treat multiple skin problems, such as brightness, pigment spots, or wrinkles.
Avoiding irritating ingredients
When using products with ceramides, it's essential to avoid ingredients that can compromise the skin barrier. Harsh cleansers can disrupt ceramides and natural lipids, leading to dry skin.
Also, avoid combining ceramides with cationic emulsifying systems, as unwanted interactions may occur.
For sensitive or irritated skin, it is recommended to test any new product on a small area before full application to check for allergic reactions.
Application to clean and exfoliated skin
To get the most out of the effects of ceramides, follow a few simple steps:
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Apply to clean and slightly damp skin – ceramides are absorbed better when the skin is freshly cleansed and moistened.
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Exfoliate regularly – removing the layer of dead cells helps ceramide products penetrate more effectively and act deeply.
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Choose the right exfoliation for your skin :
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Mechanical exfoliation – using gentle scrubs.
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Chemical exfoliation – with acids such as:
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salicylic acid (ideal for oily or acne-prone skin),
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glycolic or lactic acid (suitable for dry or dull skin).
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Apply immediately after cleansing or exfoliating , when the skin is still slightly damp – to maximize absorption of active ingredients.
To choose the right products , especially if you have sensitive skin or dermatological conditions, consult a dermatologist who can provide you with personalized recommendations.
Conclusion
Ceramides play a fundamental role in the balance and health of the skin. They help strengthen the skin barrier, maintain deep hydration and protect the skin from daily environmental aggressions. As the natural level of ceramides decreases with age, the skin becomes more fragile, drier and more reactive. Therefore, it becomes necessary and advisable to include cosmetic products with ceramides in your skin care routine. Whether we are talking about prevention, soothing sensitive skin or maintaining a youthful and even appearance, ceramides support what matters most every day: skin that feels good and looks healthy.
FAQ
1. What are ceramides and what role do they play in skin care?
Ceramides are essential lipids that make up up to 50% of the skin's protective barrier. They help maintain hydration, protect against external factors and support skin health, preventing dryness, irritation and sensitivity.
2. Why do ceramide levels in the skin decrease?
Ceramide levels naturally decline with age, but can also be caused by sun exposure, pollution, harsh cleansers, or diets low in healthy fats. This imbalance can lead to dryness, redness, and the appearance of signs of aging.
3. What skin types need ceramides?
All skin types can benefit from ceramides. They are essential for dry, sensitive, mature skin, but also for oily or acne-prone skin, as they do not block pores and support skin balance.
4. What are the most effective types of ceramides?
The most common and effective are ceramide NP, AP, EOP, EOS, and NS. Each has a specific role in restoring and protecting the skin barrier. Quality products often contain combinations of them for maximum effectiveness.
5. What is the difference between natural and synthetic ceramides?
Natural ceramides are produced by the body, but they decrease over time. Synthetic ones (pseudoceramides) are created in the laboratory and can be even more stable and effective in cosmetic products, being adapted to various skin needs.
6. Can I combine ceramides with other active ingredients?
Yes. Ceramides work very well together with:
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Hyaluronic acid – for intense hydration.
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Antioxidants (vitamin C, E) – for protection against free radicals.
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Retinol or peptides – for anti-aging effects.
These combinations treat multiple skin problems simultaneously.
7. How do I correctly apply ceramide products?
Apply ceramide products to clean, slightly damp skin. Follow the correct order:
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Gentle cleaning
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Serum with ceramides
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Moisturizing cream
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Sun protection (daytime)
8. Is exfoliation necessary before applying ceramides?
Yes, gentle exfoliation (mechanical or chemical) removes dead skin cells and allows ceramide products to penetrate more effectively. You can use acids like salicylic, glycolic, or lactic, depending on your skin type.
9. Do ceramides protect against the sun?
Yes. Studies show that ceramides help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier when exposed to UV rays. Products that also contain SPF + ceramides provide complete protection against the sun and dehydration.
10. What products do you recommend with ceramides?
Two effective examples:
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ANUA RICE 7 CERAMIDE Hydrating Barrier Serum – suitable for all skin types.
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TOCOBO Multi Ceramide Cream – contains 5 types of ceramides and 3 types of hyaluronic acid, ideal for intense hydration and skin barrier repair.