Contents
Everyone heard the name of this substance in commercials and definitely used face and hair products with ceramides in the composition. But not everyone knows what ceramides are and why they deserve such popularity. Let’s talk right now.
Why does the skin need ceramides
Ceramides or ceramides (from Latin cerebrum, “brain”) are a type of lipids (fats). They are the main structural element of the hydrolipidic layer of the skin, which is necessary to protect against aggressive external factors and prevent moisture loss.
One of the main functions of ceramides is construction, they fill the intercellular space. With a shortage or poor quality of ceramides, the integrity of the natural shield of the skin will be broken. It is not difficult to predict the sad consequences.
Dehydration Left without cover, moisture will begin to evaporate.
Dryness When the cells cannot retain moisture, the skin begins to experience thirst and an unpleasant feeling of tightness.
Irritation and inflammation Ceramides protect the skin from the penetration of toxins, heavy metals, exhaust gases, viruses and bacteria.
In addition to protecting the skin from the “bad environment”, ceramides have another important function – signaling. It is they who give a sign when it is time for old cells to die, and for new ones to be born.
With a lack of ceramides, the protective barrier of the skin is destroyed.
Ceramides: aging and destruction
The lipid balance in the skin can be disturbed due to external and internal circumstances.
Age. Alas, over time, the epidermis loses its ability to synthesize ceramides, which leads to dry skin – one of the main problems of mature skin.
Wrong care. Too aggressive, incorrectly selected cleansers disrupt the lipid layer. The result is dehydration.
Extreme weather conditions. Frost and sun, piercing wind, excessively cold or dry air can breach the skin’s defense system and cause dryness, itching and redness.
Lack of fatty acids in the diet. Yes, the skin does not like it when we eat wrong, and does not hide it. Dryness and sensitivity are the retribution for severe dietary restrictions and a lack of “good” fats in the diet.
The role of ceramides in cosmetics
Products with ceramides come to the rescue in cases where the skin, for one reason or another, suffers from a lack of its own lipids. Ideally, the ceramides that make up the cream should freely integrate into the hydrolipidic layer of the epidermis, filling in the gaps, and thus restore the integrity of the protective skin barrier.
Indications for use
Cosmetics with ceramides are universal and suitable for all skin types. But there are cases when creams with ceramides are vital.
Sensitive skin
It is distinguished by a weakened lipid barrier, and cosmetics with ceramides can alleviate its condition, protect and prevent a reaction to negative external factors.
Creams with ceramides are suitable for all skin types.
Dry skin
Its main problem is the permanent lack of lipids, and in particular ceramides. Creams containing them are able to seal in moisture and keep it in the skin.
Aged skin
Suffering from a lack of fat for obvious reasons, which include, for example, a decrease in the synthesis of their own lipids.
Skin after procedures
Creams with ceramides are indicated after salon peels and dermabrasion procedures. The skin after these manipulations requires the speedy restoration of the hydrolipid mantle.
Problem Skin
What are ceramides in cosmetics
9 different ceramides are synthesized in the skin, only some of their analogues are used in beauty products.
In cosmetic formulas, ceramides are usually combined with other lipids – cholesterol, fatty acids, amino acids. In such an environment, they work with increased efficiency.
Natural and synthetic ceramides
For cosmetic needs, ceramides of natural and synthetic origin are used. There is a widespread opinion that synthetic, so-called pseudoceramides, are much inferior in quality and action to their natural prototype. However, there is no scientific evidence to support or refute this claim.
Funds overview
Given the above, it is not surprising that ceramides are in demand as a cosmetic ingredient and appear in creams for various purposes.
Cosmetics with ceramides for skin with different needs
Cosmetics with ceramides
| Name | Ingredients | Action | Показания |
| Triple lipid restore 2:4:2, skinceuticals | high lipid content: 2% ceramides, 4% cholesterol, 2% Omega 6-, 9-fatty acids | Corrects signs of aging, increases lipid levels, moisturizes. | aging skin, dry, dehydrated |
| Corrective cream for problem skin against imperfections and post-acne Effaclar Duo (+), La Roche-Posay | lipo-hydroxy acid, prokerade – patented ceramide | Helps reduce inflammation and prevents the appearance of hyperpigmentation in the post-acne area. | problematic skin with inflammation |
| Moisturizing anti-stress fluid for the face Skin Rescuer, kiehl’s | squalane, mannose, shea butter, five kinds of cramids | Soothes, restores, reduces redness. | sensitive, irritated skin prone to redness |
| Serum for a youthful look Liftactiv serum 10 eye & Lashes, vichy | hyaluronic acid, ceramides, reflective particles | Improves the condition of the skin around the eyes and eyelashes. | wrinkles around the eyes, thin weakened eyelashes |
| Visionnaire nuit multi-active night oil gel, lancôme | seaweed, jasmonic acid derivatives, vegetable oils, ceramides | Moisturizes, softens, restores the surface of the skin. | tired, dehydrated skin, dull complexion, uneven texture |