Ceramides are among the most well-known cosmetic actives. And for good reason, they make up to 50% of the intercellular lipids in the corneal layer of the epidermis before experiencing a decrease in their quantity with age and under the effect of various factors. It is therefore appropriate to provide them through cosmetic care. But where can they be found?
In which products can we find ceramides?
Summary
Published on July 31, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 5 min of reading
Themes:
Ceramides: Why should we apply them?
Naturally present in the skin, ceramides are lipids that make up about 50% of the intercellular cement. They ensure the proper maintenance of the cells in the corneal layer, thereby preventing the penetration of aggressors and the evaporation of water: this is what is then referred to as the barrier function. The result: the skin is supple, hydrated, elastic and resilient.
However, over time and due to external damage (pollution, over-exfoliation, sun exposure, humidity, cold, etc.), the skin does not produce enough to sustain itself and this 50% of ceramides decreases. Therefore, the barrier function is no longer properly maintained and skin issues can arise: irritation, redness, dryness, inflammation...
Nevertheless, the daily provision of ceramides to the skin significantly improves its structure, and strengthens its ability to defend against external aggressions in a sustainable way and prevent water loss. All skin types can benefit from its properties and this is also applicable to hair.
Cosmetic Market: In which skincare products can ceramides be found?
Restorative, strengthening and protective, ceramides are found in various skin and hair care products, thus being able to prevent a loss of radiance, dehydration, dry areas, sensitivities, redness or even the premature appearance of signs of ageing.
Cleansers for blemished skin: Inflammatory conditions can also cause damage to the skin barrier, such as acne for example, and thus be responsible for the formation of comedones. Ceramides then contribute to the maintenance of a balanced microbiome and to the non-proliferation of germs.
Eye contour creams: As it lacks any sebaceous glands, the eye contour area is more susceptible to visible signs of ageing. However, the ceramides in the formula promote the coalition of corneocytes with each other, thus creating a protective barrier against dryness and external aggressions.
Restorative treatments for dry or sensitive skin: By nature, these skin types have a deficiency in ceramides. Topical application helps to restructure and deeply hydrate the skin. The skin then regains comfort with less irritation, hydration and softness.
Care for mature skin: Ceramides are used to nourish, revitalise and provide comfort to mature skin. They thus help to slow down the appearance of ageing signs by stimulating the process of cellular regeneration. The result: smoother, firmer and more radiant skin, and reduced fine lines.
Lip balms or masks: The skin on the lips is thin and delicate, often prone to skin discomforts such as tingling, chapping, dryness... Ceramides help to rebuild a strong skin barrier for soft lips.
After-sun products: Lotions, creams, gels... the presence of ceramides helps to repair the epidermis damaged by excessive sun exposure and to preserve the horny layer, while providing comfort to stressed and sensitised skin, alongside ingredients with cooling, soothing and hydrating effects.
Haircare: Shampoos, hair masks, conditioners... Ceramides are used to "smooth" the scales of dry and damaged hair by ensuring better cohesion between them, thereby strengthening the hair fibre.
Our selection of ceramide-based skincare treatments.
ceramides in a skincare range.
Comprising 98% naturally derived ingredients, we have developed a night lip mask with an ultra-rich balm-gel texture that forms a smoothing film over the lips. The goal? To hydrate, soften, smooth and repair chapped and damaged lips thanks to the trio of active ingredients: ceramides (INCI name: Ceramides NG), hyaluronic acid (INCI name: Sodium Hyaluronate) and mango butter (INCI name: Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter).
With an action from lengths to ends, our hair mask has been designed to strengthen the hair fibre. It benefits from the virtues of biomimetic ceramides derived from biotechnology (INCI name: Behenyl/Stearyl Aminopropanediol Esters), combined with avocado oil (INCI name: Persea Gratissima (avocado) Oil) and mango butter. These ingredients indeed enhance the hair's hydration to coat it. As a result, the hair will gain in strength and flexibility. This hair care is particularly suitable for dry and damaged hair and can be used once or twice a week.
