Ceramides
Lipids that repair and reinforce the barrier, preventing water loss.
What the evidence says
A natural barrier component; proven efficacy in dry/eczema-prone skin.
How to use it
As a cream or serum, morning and night, ideally as the last step to seal in the rest of your routine. They never irritate and need no breaks: the more consistent, the better for your barrier.
What it pairs with
With everything — especially humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin) and panthenol. The best formulas combine ceramides with cholesterol and fatty acids, mimicking the barrier's natural ratio.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly are ceramides?
Lipids that make up about half of the "mortar" between the cells of the stratum corneum. When they're lacking (dry skin, eczema, over-exfoliation), the barrier loses water and lets irritants in. Applied topically they help restore that structure.
Ceramides or hyaluronic acid: which do I need?
They do complementary jobs: hyaluronic acid pulls water in (hydration) and ceramides keep it from escaping (barrier). Occasionally dehydrated skin → hyaluronic; chronically dry, tight or reactive skin → ceramides. Most dry skin needs both.
