Ceramides in cosmetics: the foundation of moisturized and resistant skin

What are ceramides?

Ceramides are natural lipids (fats) that constitute approximately 50% of the lipids in the stratum corneum. They are a key element of the so-called intercellular cement, the structure that fills the spaces between epidermal cells (corneocytes).

The easiest way to imagine it is like a wall:

Skin cells are bricks

• Ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids are the mortar
• Without this mortar, the wall loses its integrity – and the skin loses its water, elasticity, and resilience.

Fun fact:

Human skin contains at least nine different classes of ceramides, including Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP – these are the most commonly used in effective cosmetics that rebuild the skin barrier.

How do ceramides work in cosmetics?

Ceramides in cosmetics are biomimetic, meaning they mimic substances naturally occurring in the skin. After application, they:

• fill gaps in the lipid layer
• seal the hydrolipid barrier
• reduce TEWL (transepidermal water loss)
• protect the skin from external factors

The result? Skin becomes more moisturized, resilient, smooth, and elastic.

What are ceramides good for? When should you use them?

Ceramide-containing cosmetics are especially recommended when your skin:

• is dry, dehydrated, and rough,
• reacts with burning, stinging, and redness,
• has a compromised hydrolipid barrier,
• struggles with atopic dermatitis, eczema, or psoriasis,
• loses firmness and ages more quickly,
• is undergoing or has undergone acid, retinoid, or aesthetic treatments,
• is undergoing hormonal changes (e.g., menopause),

With age and a decline in estrogen, ceramide levels in the skin rapidly decline, making them a key component of mature skin care.

Ceramides and Other Active Ingredients – Can They Be Combined?

Ceramides and Niacinamide

The Perfect Combination

• Niacinamide stimulates the skin to produce its own ceramides
• Ceramides rebuild the skin barrier "from the outside in"

Ceramides and Peptides

Anti-aging Synergy

• Ceramides provide structure and protection
• Peptides signal skin renewal

Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid

Hydration + Protection

• HA binds water
• Ceramides prevent water loss

Ceramides and Retinol

One of the Best Combinations

Ceramides:

• Soothe irritation
• Reduce dryness
• Enable better retinol tolerance

What should you avoid combining ceramides with?

👉 With nothing.

Ceramides are one of the safest and most versatile cosmetic ingredients.

They do not interact negatively with other active ingredients.

If there are any limitations (e.g., retinol + acids), they result from the action of these ingredients—not from the presence of ceramides.

How to use cosmetics with ceramides?

For best results:

• Cleanse and tone your skin
• Apply a serum (e.g., one with niacinamide or hyaluronic acid)
• Apply a cream or emulsion with ceramides
• In the morning, finish your skincare routine with SPF

Ceramides are best used as the last step of your skincare routine because they seal in moisture and strengthen the protective barrier.

Ceramides in Cosmetics – Why Are They Worth It?

Cosmetics with ceramides offer:

• long-lasting hydration
• rebuilding the hydrolipid barrier
• protection against external factors
• reduced irritation
• slower skin aging

You can find them in:

• face creams
• serums
• body lotions
• masks
• hair cosmetics

Look for the following INCI ingredients:

Ceramide NP, AP, EOP, EOS, AS, NS, as well as phytosphingosine and sphingosine.

Summary – Are ceramides worth using?

Absolutely.

Ceramides are the foundation of healthy, resilient, and youthful-looking skin – regardless of age or skin type. Regular use is an investment in skin comfort, hydration, and effective protection.