Ceramides

What is Ceramides?

Ceramides is a botanical ingredient that derived from plants and provides various skin benefits through natural compounds. Results are typically seen in the long-term (months or longer). It is most effective at a concentration of 1-5%. These lipids are essential components of the skin's barrier and help maintain moisture balance.

Perfect For

Oily: Neutral effect on oily skin
Dry: Highly beneficial - provides needed moisture and barrier repair
Sensitive: Neutral effect on sensitive skin
Combination: Depends on specific formulation and application technique
Mature: Beneficial - provides hydration often needed by mature skin

Considerations & Cautions

Extremely safe, skin-identical molecules with minimal risk of irritation or allergic response.

Ingredient Interactions

Works well with: fatty acids, cholesterol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide

Avoid combining with: none specifically

Notes: Most effective when combined with other barrier lipids in a 3:1:1 ratio (ceramides:cholesterol:fatty acids)

References

Strength: Moderate - Clinical evidence

Key Studies:
• Zettersten E, et al. Journal of Investigative Dermatology (1997): Research on barrier recovery
• Coderch L, et al. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2003): Study on skin barrier function
• Tfayli A, et al. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (2010): Research on lipid organization in stratum corneum

Mechanisms:
• Key component of the intercellular lipid matrix
• Helps maintain the water permeability barrier
• Protects against environmental damage
• Signals cellular processes including differentiation and apoptosis