Today we’re taking a look at ceramides – the natural lipids on the surface of the skin that protect pores from the external environment. Find out why they’re so effective, who should use them, plus which K-Beauty products you’ll find them in!
WHAT ARE CERAMIDES?
Ceramides are a fat type molecule that carry surface skin cells together. They make up over 50% of the skin’s upper layer and help keep our skin moisturised and smooth. Unfortunately, ceramides reduce as we age, leading the skin to lose both firmness and elasticity. The kinds of ceramides you’ll find in skincare products aren’t the ones produced by our bodies – they’re either derived naturally from plants or may be synthetic versions, with a similar composition to skin.
WHY ARE CERAMIDES SO GOOD?
Ceramides are what holds the skin’s outer layer together, making sure that moisture stays locked in and bacteria stays out. In a nutshell: they fortify the skin’s barrier. Good ceramide content is one of the keys to youthful looking skin.
WHY ARE CERAMIDES INCLUDED IN SKINCARE PRODUCTS?
Ceramides are often included as an ingredient in skincare products because they have firming, plumping and hydrating benefits.
They help treat common skin concerns such as red, scratchy or irritated skin, to name a few. You’ll frequently find them in products designed to treat aging, fine lines, wrinkles and dry, flaky skin, as they work to create an occlusive barrier, which reduces skin irritation and nourishes it to keep it plump and smooth.
WHO SHOULD USE CERAMIDES?
Ceramides replenish the natural lipids that are lost due to harsh environmental factors, as well as natural aging and drying. This makes them perfect for all skin types, but especially those with damaged skin, anti-aging concerns, and itchy, scratchy skin.
Ceramides replenish the natural lipids that are lost due to harsh environmental factors, as well as natural aging and drying. This makes them perfect for all skin types, but especially those with damaged skin, anti-aging concerns, and itchy, scratchy skin.
Those with damaged skin
If you find your skin is overly dry or damaged thanks to the elements, ceramides will work well for you, as well as those who are frequently exposed to air-conditioning or heating.
Those with scratchy, itchy skin
If you suffer from red, scratchy or itchy skin, Ceramides work to create a barrier that boosts and protects the skin’s outer layer, making them perfect to soothe your skin.
Those with anti-aging concerns
If you suffer from fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes, ceramides can help by smoothing the skin out, reducing their appearance.
K-BEAUTY PRODUCTS WITH CERAMIDES
Ceramides are a common ingredient in many K-Beauty products. Some of our favourites include:
Dr Jart Ceramidin™ Cream –This cult favourite moisturising cream increases skin’s ability to restore itself and relieves itchiness and extreme dryness while repairing damaged skin.
TOCOBO Multi Ceramide Cream is a great option for vegans. It combines Ceramide and Hyaluronic Acid to moisturise and strengthen the skin's barrier in harmony.
If you’re concerned about skin sensitivities and are one of the 2-4% of people who suffers from a true fragrance allergy, Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Creamis for you!
Dr. Jart Ceramidin Liquid is a lightweight moisturizing toner that is supercharged with 5-Cera Complex. Even one use leaves skin feeling supple, moisturized, and ready to absorb the next products in your regimen.
APLB Ceramide Moisture Cream fills skin with hydration and protects it from the external environment. Ceramide NP and Glycerin function to build a protective skin barrier, prevent dryness and retain moisture. Centella 3x Complex assists with inflammation and damage.
COSRX Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream is a highly effective skin moisturiser for skin that has been weakened and damaged. It assists to recover the balance between oil and moisture and improve skin elasticity.
Dr Jart Ceramidin™ Serum improves rough skin, flakiness, tightness for dryness and soothes and moisturises chronic dry skin, allergies and itchiness.
"Ceramides are what holds the skin’s outer layer together, making sure that moisture stays locked in and bacteria stays out. In a nutshell: they fortify the skin’s barrier. Good ceramide content is one of the keys to youthful looking skin."
