Constantly layering on product after product but still battling dry skin? Suffer from eczema flare ups every now and then, or perhaps even psoriasis? Well, using ceramides in your skincare routine could be the answer.
Leading Australian dermatologist, Dr Ryan De Cruz, and CeraVe’s scientific communications manager, Rachel McAdam, recently answered some of our burning questions – explaining everything from what ceramides are, why they are so important and other fast facts surrounding the star skincare term.
What are ceramides?
Simply put, ceramides are a component of the skin barrier. They are lipids (or fat molecules) that help skin retain moisture and allow for proper function. A vital component of the skin, they help keep the complexion hydrated and feeling soft. Ceramides are the body’s natural moisturiser, and the barrier that prevents skin from becoming dehydrated.
Why are ceramides so important?
McAdam explained that ceramides play a powerful role in keeping the skin hydrated by ensuring water doesn’t escape from our epidermis. They also ensure the skin has a strong barrier to the outside world, keeping our skin safe from irritants and aggressors.
In fact, when the skin lacks ceramides, dryness and irritation can occur. This is due to the barrier becoming compromised, with recent research also highlighting that low ceramide levels have been linked to skin conditions such as eczema.
Other fast facts
1. We can replenish ceramides to maintain healthy skin
Naturally occurring ceramides can become depleted by exposure to hot water, soaps, chemicals and environmental aggressors, McAdam said. In turn, our skin’s barrier can become compromised, leading to dryness, itching and irritation. Replenishing ceramides with ceramide-infused skincare helps maintain a strong skin barrier and increased moisture levels.
2. Ceramides promote healthy, beautiful-looking skin
McAdam confirmed each and every one of CeraVe’s dermatologist-developed, fragrance-free products are enriched with ceramides 1, 3 and 6-II, to help maintain our skin’s natural barrier and promote healthy, beautiful-looking skin.
3. The crucial three ceramides
CeraVe’s unique combination of three essential Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) were selected due to their major role proven to protect our skin’s barrier function. A reduction in these three key ceramides can cause dry skin, moisture loss, dehydration and skin conditions.
BD also recommends the following skincare products formulated with ceramides:
- DermaVeen Calmexa™ Moisturiser with Ceramides
- Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Micro Capsule Skin Replenishing Essence
- QV Intensive with Ceramides Sting-free Ointment
- Rodan + Fields SOOTHE Gentle Cream Wash
- Natio Treatments - Skin Renewal Ceramide Line & Wrinkle Cream
- innisfree Derma Green Tea Probiotics Cream
- Ultraceuticals Ultra Rich Moisturiser Cream
