Skin School: Ceramides

Your skin barrier is the front line in your defence against environmental stressors, and to perform at its best, it needs to be well-nourished and balanced.

Ceramides are lipid molecules naturally present in the skin, making up nearly 50% of the skin's outer layer¹. These molecules play a vital role in maintaining skin hydration, elasticity and overall skin health. They come in various types, each providing unique benefits to the skin. As an emollient, ceramides soften and smooth the skin, lock in moisture, and prevent dryness and irritation².

In our Probiotic Vitamin Moisturiser, we have included the science-backed ingredient, Ceramide NS. Ceramide NS has been proven to be incredibly effective in strengthening the skin's barrier, as well as being highly beneficial for dry skin². An in-vivo study showed significantly improved skin barrier integrity and skin moisture levels from 7 days to 42 days of topical application, visibly reducing the appearance of skin dryness³.

Read on to find out why these wonder molecules are game-changers when it comes to complexion care.

Maintains your skin barrier function

The skin's outermost layer, also known as the stratum corneum, is made up of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids¹. This combination creates a protective barrier that keeps moisture in and irritants out. When this barrier is compromised, it can lead to dryness, redness and irritation. Ceramides act as the fortifying glue that holds this barrier together, preventing water loss and maintaining skin health.

Improves hydration + elasticity
As we age, our skin's natural production of ceramides decreases, leading to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles as the skin loses its moisture. Ceramides help to replenish these essential lipids and improve the skin's hydration levels. This results in a plumper, more youthful-looking complexion, as well as improved elasticity. Incorporating ceramides into your skincare routine can help to reverse the signs of ageing and give you a more radiant, supple complexion.

Boosts skin repair + regeneration:
Ceramides are not only essential for maintaining the skin's barrier function and hydration levels, but they also play a crucial role in repairing and regenerating the skin³. These lipids help to strengthen and rebuild damaged skin cells, promoting faster healing of wounds or inflammation. Incorporating ceramide-rich products into your routine can help accelerate the skin's repair process and improve overall skin health.

Provides anti-ageing benefits
Our skin is constantly exposed to various environmental stressors such as pollution, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions. These factors can damage the skin's barrier and lead to premature ageing. Acting as a protective shield, ceramides help to defend the skin against these external aggressors and prevent further damage⁴. Additionally, they stimulate collagen production, which helps to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles².

Try It: Probiotic Vitamin Moisturiser

A light-weight yet deeply nourishing cream formulated to support the skin microbiome and barrier with the power of topical Probiotics, plus soothing Seaweed Extract for a healthy, radiant complexion. We’ve included a patented blend of Ceramides with complementary ingredients formulated to provide a targeted system to deliver ceramides into the skin and repair the skin barrier. This active ingredient restores the hydrolipidic film, enhancing skin natural barrier function and reducing the transepidermal water loss for immediate and long-lasting hydration. Designed to leave your face soft, supple and glowing with nourishment.

References:

1. Coderch, L., López, O., de la Maza, A. and Parra, J.L. (2003). Ceramides and Skin Function. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 4(2), pp.107–129. doi:https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200304020-00004.
2. Meckfessel, M.H. and Brandt, S. (2014). The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, [online] 71(1), pp.177–184. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2014.01.891.
3. A daily skincare regimen with a unique ceramide and filaggrin formulation rapidly improves chronic xerosis, pruritus, and quality of life in older adults. (2018). Geriatric Nursing, [online] 39(1), pp.24–28. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gerinurse.2017.05.002.
4. Schachner, L.A., Alexis, A.F., Anneke Andriessen, Berson, D., Gold, M.H., Goldberg, D.J., Hu, S., Keri, J., Kircik, L. and Woolery-Lloyd, H. (2023). Insights into acne and the skin barrier: Optimizing treatment regimens with ceramide‐containing skincare. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.15946.