Ceramides

Roughly half of healthy skin's outer layer is made up of ceramides, naturally occurring lipid chains that sit between skin cells and act as a protective barrier. That barrier is what keeps moisture locked in and pollution and other environmental stressors locked out. Unfortunately, ceramide levels drop with age and other factors, which leaves skin more vulnerable to irritation and a range of other concerns.

Skincare formulas replenish ceramides using either plant derived sources or bio identical synthetic versions, and both work well in a properly formulated product. Their defining strength is water retention, which is why ceramides show up so often in products meant to hydrate, replenish, and restore skin, while also strengthening the barrier and improving elasticity.