Ceramides are a type of lipid (fat) that naturally occurs in the skin. They form a major part of the skin’s outer protective barrier, also known as the stratum corneum. Together with cholesterol and fatty acids, ceramides help hold skin cells together — often compared to the “cement” that keeps bricks in place within a wall.
Their key functions include:
• preventing excessive water loss
• protecting the skin from external irritants and pollutants
• supporting barrier strength and integrity
• maintaining smoothness and suppleness
When ceramide levels are healthy, the skin barrier remains strong, hydrated and resilient.
However, when ceramide levels are reduced, the skin may become:
• dry or rough
• sensitive or reactive
• prone to irritation or redness
• more vulnerable to environmental damage
This is why ceramide-based skincare is commonly recommended for barrier-impaired or dehydrated skin.
Ceramide depletion can occur due to a range of lifestyle, environmental, and biological factors, including:
• ageing and natural skin changes
• harsh or stripping skincare products
• over-exfoliation or aggressive treatments
• cold or low-humidity environments
• frequent exposure to hot water
• certain skin conditions or sensitivities
When the barrier becomes weakened, moisture escapes more easily — leading to tightness, flaking, and impaired barrier function.
Restoring ceramide levels can help rebalance the skin and improve comfort and hydration.
Ceramides are widely used in moisturisers, barrier creams, and recovery formulas due to their proven benefits for skin health. These include:
1. Strengthening the Skin Barrier
Ceramides help reinforce the protective outer layer of the skin, supporting its ability to defend against environmental stressors and daily exposure.
2. Reducing Moisture Loss
By sealing moisture within the skin, ceramides improve long-lasting hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
3. Supporting Sensitive or Compromised Skin
Ceramides are particularly beneficial for:
• dry and dehydrated skin
• sensitivity and barrier dysfunction
• post-treatment recovery
• mature or ageing skin
They help improve comfort, smoothness, and barrier resilience.
4. Promoting Healthy-Looking Skin Texture
With regular use, ceramide-rich formulas can improve the appearance of roughness, dullness, and surface dryness, helping the skin appear smoother and more conditioned.
Ceramide-based products are most effective when applied as part of the moisturising or final stage of the routine.
Professional guidance generally recommends applying ceramides:
• after serums or active treatments
• as a final step to seal in hydration
• morning and/or evening, depending on skin needs
They pair well with:
• hyaluronic acid
• glycerin and humectants
• soothing and barrier-support ingredients
Ceramides are typically gentle and well-tolerated across most skin types.
Ceramides are suitable for a wide range of clients and skin presentations, including:
• dry or dehydrated skin
• environmental or seasonal dryness
• sensitised or compromised barriers
• professional skincare recovery plans
• mature or ageing skin
They are a valuable inclusion in both home-care routines and professional treatment recommendations.
Ceramides play a vital role in maintaining the skin’s natural barrier, protecting against moisture loss, and supporting long-term skin health. For skincare professionals, understanding how ceramides function helps inform product selection, treatment planning, and client education — ensuring skin remains strong, hydrated and well-protected.
