Did you know that ceramides have become the new hyaluronic acid in the world of beauty? But like all the other “trendy” ingredients that came before it, we have to wonder: Is this just another marketing ploy to help brands sell more products, or are ceramides worth incorporating into our skincare routine?
The importance of using ceramides in your beauty routine
What is ceramides and how do they work?
Ceramides are a class of lipid molecules that play a vital role in forming and maintaining the skin barrier. It’s helpful to think of your skin’s barrier (also known as the epidermis, also known as the stratum corneum) a network of healthy lipids made up of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. Ceramides help keep water inside, thus preventing water loss through the skin, while also keeping out bacteria, viruses and allergens. As a result, ceramides play an important role in the overall appearance of our skin by helping to fill in fine lines and keeping it hydrated so it remains soft and supple.
Why use ceramide-infused skin care products?
Over time, the amount of ceramides in our skin naturally decreases, resulting in a weakening of the skin’s protective barrier. Skin that lacks the proper amounts of ceramides is usually dry. This is the direct result of excessive water loss from the deeper layers of the skin and excessive entry of irritants.
Who should consider adding ceramides to their routine?
While experts agree that ceramides are safe to use on all skin types and almost anyone can benefit from a ceramide-infused product, it’s especially recommended for those with dry or sensitive skin. These skin types may have a broken skin barrier, resulting in dryness, redness, sensitivity and discomfort. In this case, ceramides can act as a glue that repairs holes in the skin barrier, helping to make the skin calmer and less reactive.
Can ceramides be combined with other active ingredients?
You can perfectly combine ceramides with other active ingredients, including some of my favorites like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and squalene for deep hydration and barrier support. Ceramides can also be used in combination with performance enhancers, such as vitamin C, glycolic acid, and retinol, and can help desensitize these substances by further supporting the skin barrier.
How to use ceramides in your skincare routine
Ceramides are best incorporated into your skincare routine through a moisturizer. This way, its active ingredients – whether it’s vitamin C, niacinamide, glycolic acid, or retinol – stay close to the skin, where they will perform best, while you get excellent skin barrier support from your ceramides.
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