Ceramides are fatty acids that help to repair and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier system. They improve skin texture and hydration.
The Verdict: Ceramides are natural lipids (oils) found within the skin that make up over 50 per cent of the skin’s composition and are what protect our skin from moisture loss and environmental irritants for example pollution and dry air.
Our Ceramides deplete as we age and therefore skincare companies make products containing Ceramides claiming to restore this. When our skin barrier is compromised by things such as very dry air or the use of oil stripping products it can result in irrigation and dry, sore skin. This takes me back to my skincare philosophy of avoiding using anything harsh that will strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation. Diet also influences Ceramide levels and eating a diet with sufficient protein and oils is important.
In my opinion prevention is better than cure. Do not strip your skin of its natural oils. Use gentle oil-based cleansers and apply nourishing oils to protect the skins natural lipid barrier.
As for whether you need to specifically look for Ceramide products in skincare? No. Most oils contain Ceramides in differing percentages such as Jojoba oil which contains up to 96% Ceramides and Grapeseed oil which contains 73% Ceramides. Don’t overthink it. Just use good oils in your skincare.
