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Find out the function of ceramides in skin care, plus the best products that incorporate the ingredient.
Another ingredient that’s constantly getting name-dropped?
Photo: Getty Images - Design: Alex Sandoval
Stay tuned to find out more.
What Are Ceramides?
A common analogy used to illustrate the role of ceramides likens your skin barrier to a brick wall.
Elizabeth Arden
Like collagen, the amount of ceramides in your skin naturally drops over time as you get older.
“As you age, certain processes in your body naturally slow down,” explains Dr. Engelman.
“Ceramide production is one of these processes (along with collagen and elastin production).
Skinceuticals
Plant-derived ceramides, also called phytoceramides, are found in a variety of plants e.g.
No need to get too caught up with which version is in your products, though.
Ceramides are also classified by numbers.
Amazon
This is why you may have heard that ceramide 1 is the most important ceramide.
When working in tandem with ceramides 2 and 3, it provides even more potent moisturizing effects.
The key takeaway from all of this?
Glo Skin Beauty
“Incorporating ceramides strengthens the skin barrier and restores hydration, plumpness, and elasticity.”
Ceramides also pair well with certain acne treatments (i.e.
salicylic acid) as well as retinoids.
Spectacle
To put it bluntly, ceramides are moisture-trapping superstars.
Theyfill in gapsbetween skin cells, which reduces how much water can escape through the skin.
Humectants draw water to the skin while the ceramides then help lock it in.
Naturopathica
“you could apply a moisturizer with ceramides as often as needed,” says Dr. Lortscher.
If you want to add products with ceramides into your routine, here a few standouts.
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Typology
Dr. Engelman recommends this since it’s a “super potent formula designed to penetrate deeply.”
The ceramide cream promises to nourish skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines.
“This cleanser is specifically formulated for normal to oily skin,” says Dr. Lortscher.
For bonus points, follow up with one of the aforementioned moisturizers.
