What are Ceramides and Do They Benefit My Skin?

As far as skincare goes, there’s one important anti-aging ingredient that doesn’t get its fair share of attention: ceramides. You’ll find them in a lot of  skin care products, but what, exactly, are they and what are their benefits? Read on to find out.

Ceramides are lipids (fat molecules) that occur naturally in skin. They’re found in high concentrations within cell membranes in the uppermost layer of skin. Ceramides make up over 50% of skin’s composition, so they play a key role in determining how your skin looks and responds to environmental stressors. And because they occur naturally in skin, products containing ceramides are ideal for all skin types, including sensitive, oily, or breakout-prone skin. They’re also safe to use around the eyes.

How do Ceramides Benefit Your Skin?

Think of ceramides as the mortar and your skin cells as bricks. Ceramides play an important role in holding the skin together and forming a protective layer that prevents dehydration. In other words, ceramides help the skin retain moisture, feel smooth, and look supple. Ceramides also help protect the skin against environmental aggressors like pollution, dry air, and irritants. In addition, ceramides are anti-aging “powerhouses” that support the skin’s dynamic nature.

Although ceramides are naturally produced by the skin, they may be depleted by sun damage, exposure to hot water, use of drying products, and other environmental factors. The natural aging process also reduces the effectiveness of your skin’s ceramides. And when the skin does not contain enough ceramides, the barrier becomes compromised, resulting in drier, rougher skin, irritation, redness, itching, and visible signs of dehydration. Research has also linked low levels of ceramides to skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. One of the main functions of our skin is to provide protection from environmental elements. And when it lacks the right concentration of ceramides, the barrier’s function is diminished and the health of our skin becomes vulnerable.

While it’s not possible to completely restore what has been diminished, using properly formulated skin care products that contain ceramides can help reinforce the skin’s natural barrier, increase moisture levels, and protect the skin from harmful foreign elements. This results in smoother and firmer skin, less irritation, and reduced fine lines and wrinkles. Applying skin care that is formulated with ceramides can also improve eczema and psoriasis.

Want to get recommendations for well-formulated skin care products that contain ceramides? The skinc are experts at North Scottsdale Laser and Skincare Clinic can help. Call us today at 480-513-2888 or book an appointment online to schedule a complimentary consultation