Ceramides for skin: A superstar ingredient to delay skin ageing and boost the glow

Skin care is a layered process involving the use of multiple products ranging from cleansers, exfoliators, moisturisers, serums and more. While choosing skin care products for your skin type is necessary, it also helps you to know the ingredients in your skincare. One such important beauty ingredient is ceramides that can boost your moisture levels and help to soothe your skin. A 2008 study published in the US National Library of Medicine showed that using skin care products with ceramides might help to soothe skin irritation and manage dry skin. Let’s find out what an expert has to say about ceramides for skin care.

What are ceramides?

Ceramides are a type of lipid (fat molecule) that naturally occur in the stratum corneum, which is outermost layer of your skin, says Bengaluru-based dermatologist and cosmetologist Dr Kisalay Saurav. They have a starring role in maintaining your skin’s barrier function as well as overall health. Our skin is made up of ceramides, but they tend to get lost over time, leading to dull and dry skin.

A 2017 study published in the US National Library of Medicine suggested that people who have skin problems such as psoriasis or eczema, have fewer ceramides in their skin. But don’t worry, you can apply them topically to repair your dry skin. You can find them in skin care products like moisturisers, cleansers and serums.

What are the benefits of ceramides for skin?

Ceramides are beneficial for your skin as they help in various processes that help your skin to look and feel younger.

1. Ceramides maintain skin barrier

Ceramides are a fundamental component of the skin barrier, which makes sure there is no water loss and protects against external irritants.

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2. Keep skin hydrated

They help to lock in moisture, reducing your chances of experiencing skin dryness and preventing your skin from becoming flaky or rough, the expert tells Health Shots.

3. Protect skin

Ceramides act as a shield against environmental factors like pollution, UV rays and harsh weather conditions. Once your skin gets protection, the risk of skin damage drops down.

4. Fight skin ageing

There are many anti-ageing products for your skin. You should look for ceramides, as they can also contribute to a more youthful appearance by maintaining the skin’s integrity and moisture balance.

Do ceramides help inflammation and soothe skin?

Ceramides have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to soothe sensitive or irritated skin, says Dr Saurav. They can soothe the skin by helping to repair the skin barrier. When the skin barrier is compromised, it can lead to irritation, redness and sensitivity. Ceramides replenish the lipid layer, reducing inflammation and promoting healthier skin.

How to pair the right skincare ingredients with ceramides?

It’s not just ceramides that you need for healthy skin. Hyaluronic acid happens to be an excellent ingredient to pair with ceramides. Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, while ceramides help to seal that moisture in and maintain the skin barrier. This combination can provide intense hydration and skin barrier support, leaving your skin looking and feeling healthier and more radiant, says the expert.

Ceramides are generally safe and beneficial for all skin types, including dry, sensitive, oily and combination skin. They are especially helpful for those with dry and sensitive skin, as they can provide much-needed hydration and relief from irritation. However, if you have a known allergy or sensitivity to specific ceramide-containing ingredients or products, you should avoid them. Best is to go for a patch test before including skin care products with ceramides in your daily ritual.