What are ceramides?

 

Ceramides are a class of fatty acids called lipids. They’re naturally found in skin cells and make up about 50% of the outer layer of skin (epidermis).

 

While ceramides are noted for their role in brain and nervous system development, they’ve gained a lot of interest in the skincare world for their potential skin health benefits. Other cosmetic uses include shampoos, deodorants, and makeup.

 

What do ceramides do for your skin?

 

Ceramides are made up of long-chain fatty acids that link with other important molecules to promote cellular function.

Ceramides help create a barrier to prevent permeability. This locks moisture into your skin, which helps prevent dryness and irritation. It may also protect your epidermis from environmental damage.

These benefits may have anti-aging effects. Fine lines and wrinkles are often more noticeable when skin is dry. Locking in moisture may minimize their appearance.

 

If my skin is already made up of ceramides, why should they also be used in skincare?

 

Although human skin is naturally made up of ceramides, these fatty acids are lost and decrease over time. This can result in dull, dry skin. You may be able to minimize these effects by supplementing your skin with extra ceramide.

 

What skin types and conditions benefit from added ceramides?

 

It’s unclear whether your skin’s naturally occurring ceramide levels relate to your risk of developing certain underlying skin conditions. However, research does suggest that people who have eczema or psoriasis have fewer ceramides in their skin.

Although more research is needed, there’s reason to believe that using ceramide-containing skincare products may cause irritation but provides an additional barrier to certain cases of dry skin

 

Are skin products preferable over ceramide foods or supplements?

 

There’s no clear-cut answer to this. People who have certain skin conditions do benefit from ceramide supplements, as these treat the underlying condition from the inside out. Ceramide-containing topical products may be more appropriate for dry, aging skin.

 

Types of ceramide products and routines

 

Your product selection will depend on your skin type. For example, if you have dry skin, consider a ceramide-containing cream. Creams and ointments contain more moisture and may be less irritating than lotions without ceramides.

Exactly where you include ceramides in your skincare routine depends on the type of product you’re using.

Here at Private Label skincare Florida, we add ceramides as a “Hero” ingredient in our custom formulations.

Creams and moisturizers are used as a last step at night or right before applying sunscreen in the morning. They also work well at trapping in moisture when applied right after a shower or bath.

Ceramides are also available in some skin cleansers. These are used twice a day.

 

Why does the packaging matter?

 

When it comes to ceramides, not all product packaging is created equal.

Look for products in opaque, airless jars and similar packaging that exposes the bulk of the product to light and air with each use. Without this type packaging, it may render the product ineffective over time. Also pay attention to product expiration dates.

 

Can ceramides be combined with other skincare ingredients for maximum effect?

Using ceramides in combination with other skincare ingredients may help you better achieve your desired results. For maximum benefit, look for restorative products with ingredients like:

• antioxidants

• peptides

• retinol

 

Is there any risk of side effects?

 

Topical ceramides are generally considered safe. Although there isn’t any research or reports documenting adverse reactions, always do a patch test to determine how your skin will react.

 

What can you expect?

 

Like any new skincare product, ceramides can take time to reveal their full effects.

Although creams and lotions may have an immediate moisturizing effect, the anti-aging appearance may take weeks to show. It all depends on your skin cell turnover rate. You may notice firmer, smoother skin within three to six months of consistent use.

 

What about ceramides for hair?

 

Ceramides are also sometimes added to shampoos and conditioners. They act as a conditioning agent, locking nutrients in and strengthening the overall hair shaft.

If your hair is extremely dry or damaged, ceramide hair products may help restore its overall appearance. When you contact Private Label Skincare Florida, be sure to mention that you would like the “Hero” ingredient added to your custom formulation.

 

The bottom line

 

Ceramide skincare products may help supplement your skin’s natural ceramide production and work the same way for your hair.

They’re primarily used to help restore moisture and minimize irritation. They may also have a role in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis.

For more information on which base formulas would be best to add this “Hero” too, call and we can help you select the best bases for maximum benefit of this incredible ingredient.