Ceramides in skincare and haircare – Complete Guide

Ceramides are naturally occurring compounds in our bodies. They help to hold the upper layers of the skin. The production of ceramides decreases as we age, so it’s essential to replenish them.

• It helps to reduce water loss and act as a moisturizer

• Ceramides can help skincare actives to penetrate deeper into the skin.

• It helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Ceramides are suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin and skin of color because it naturally occurs in our body making it safe to use. It can also be used by people suffering from Ichthyosis, Gaucher Disease, and Xerosis.

• Hyaluronic acid
• Peptides
• Retinol and retinoids
• AHA/BHA/PHA’s
• Cholesterol and fatty acids
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Vitamin C
• Azelaic acid
• Niacinamide
• Alpha arbutin
• Vitamin E
• Ferulic acid
• Tranexamic acid
• All other skincare actives you can think of.

• You can use a gentle, non-foaming AHA/BHA/PHA-based cleanser
• You can choose a toner of your choice.
• You can apply your ceramides in the morning or night or twice a day.
• If you have sensitive skin, make sure to apply it before your skincare actives.
• You can then moisturize and apply your sunscreen.
• Note: You can use ceramides as a part of your winter skincare routine.

Products that contain only ceramides, but no fatty acids or cholesterol can upset your skin’s lipid balance, especially if you have eczema, dry skin, or any other skin conditions that are already affected by a lack of balance between these three components.

So you should make sure to use products that contain ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol at a similar ratio to what your skin naturally produces.

Ceramides and cholesterol are easy to find on many products, but free fatty acids come in different forms and different names. Free fatty acids are also common in many skincare products, if you do see ceramides and cholesterol, the fatty acids are likely to be there as well.

But the number of ceramides in an individual can be different, so there is no need to stress about it.

Make sure to look for dark, tinted bottles so the product will not lead to oxidization. You can also look for products that have ceramide 1, ceramide 2, ceramide 3, or ceramide 6-II.

Ceramide may also appear in products such as sphingosine and phytosphingosine. Make sure to check the product expiry dates.

Ceramides can help to keep the hair cuticle flat to retain moisture, shine, and resistance to wear and tear. Ceramides are also added to shampoos and conditioners.

Yes, ceramides are perfectly safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Ceramides are emollients that help to fill in the gaps between skin cells to improve dry patches and make the skin more flexible, smooth, and soft.

Ceramides are naturally occurring compounds in our body that help to moisturize and reduce water loss in our body. It is essential to replenish ceramides in our bodies as we age. Peptides have anti-aging properties that help to maintain skin structure (collagen, elastin).

No, ceramides cannot clog pores on their own but when they are used in other products with rich moisturizing ingredients they clog the pores. Make sure to look for a light ceramide-rich product.

No, ceramides cannot cause purging because they are naturally found in our body and help to restore the skin barrier. Applying ceramides topically won’t do any harm.

No, ceramides cannot cause fungal acne as they are naturally found in our body, it helps to prevent water loss and retain moisture in the skin. It can act as a moisturizer. Unlike acne, fungal acne isn’t caused by clogged pores, it is caused by the overgrowth of yeast. This can be because of heat and humidity.

No, ceramides cannot lighten your skin, they can only moisturize and prevent water loss from the skin. They help to keep the skin soft and supple.

Yes, you can use ceramides with tretinoin. It is perfectly safe and helps to reduce the side effects of tretinoin.