Did you know that the ceramides found in many creams are fats your skin already has, and they matter for its barrier?
The mortar of the barrier
The outermost layer of the skin is often described as a brick wall. The bricks are the cells, which by this stage have lost their nucleus. Between one brick and the next there is a mortar made of lipids, which holds the structure together and limits water loss. Ceramides are an important part of this mortar.
They are molecules the skin makes on its own. In recent years they have appeared in many creams, and knowing what they are helps you read labels with more awareness.
What the review covers
The work we are discussing is a review published in 2014 in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. It brings together what is known about skin ceramides, their structure, their function and their use in skincare products.
The authors point out that a great deal of research has gone into identifying the many types of ceramides found in human skin. They are a complex family of molecules, with different structures and different roles.
The main points
Ceramides are epidermal lipids that are important for the barrier function of the skin. Changes in their content are associated with several skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis.
This is why newer skincare formulations include ceramides, with the aim of applying them from the outside to support the skin barrier. The authors stress that, precisely because these ingredients are becoming so common, it is important to understand their role in the skin and how they are used in products.
How to read this work
A review offers an overall picture and helps you find your way. Its conclusions reflect the state of knowledge at that time, without the results of a new experiment.
The practical message is simple. Ceramides are part of the skin’s natural barrier, and a cream that contains them aims to support it. The result depends on the formula as a whole and on the condition of your skin. If your skin is very dry, red or itchy, a dermatologist can help you understand what you really need.
This article is for information only. It does not replace the advice of a doctor or dermatologist, whom you should consult with any question about your skin.