K-BEAUTY INGREDIENTS WE LOVE: CERAMIDES

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.

Our Favourite Moisturisers for Oily 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:

Subi Brightening Powder Cleanser-  Lightweight, ultra-versatile and perfect for everyday use, this cleanser featuring Ceramide NP and Centella asiatica is a shapeshifter that does the work of several products in one. It cleanses, can even exfoliate and is perfect to leave the house and travel with.

Jelly Ko Cinnamon Toast Sugar Scrub Foam - This multifunctional product features 4 products in 1 - a cleanser, exfoliator, lip scrub and body scrub. In addition to sugar, the star exfoliating ingredient, it also features Ceramides and Vitamin E to ensure skin stays soft and hydrated 

Dr Jart Ceramidin Cream- A fast-absorbing, moisturizing cream with 5 Ceramides plus Panthenol that strengthens the skin barrier, moisturizes and boosts elasticity.

Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Cream- Perfect for combination, oily and sensitive skin, this nourishing moisturiser provides deep hydration without being too heavy or greasy. It absorbs well and has a subtle, pleasant scent that doesn't overwhelm.

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