If you have been paying attention to the media, you may have heard about ceramides. You may also hear that they are beneficial to the skin. However, it may leave you wondering what exactly that means and how they are beneficial.
What are Ceramides?
Ceramides are a lipid that is made from sphingosine and a fatty acid. These are the lipids that are found between the cells located in the top layer of the epidermis. These lipids create 50 percent of the oil that the skin consumes. Ceramides help the development of the nervous system and the brain. In addition to that, they maintain skin health. They are able to keep the skin supple, plump, and hydrated because they prevent the skin from losing moisture. In addition, ceramides protect the skin from bacteria, environmental toxins, and irritants.
How Can Ceramides Benefit the Skin?
Maintain Skin Barrier
The combination of age and the use of harsh exfoliants and soaps can cause the skin to lose ceramides. When these levels go down, the protective barrier of the skin is compromised, causing tiny cracks to form. When the skin breaks down, it can lead to inflammation and infection. Conversely, when ceramides are replenished, it helps maintain a healthy skin barrier and allow it to function properly.
Hydration Boost
Ceramides help lock in hydration and moisture. When they are lacking, the skin becomes dehydrated, rough, and cracked. As the skin’s barrier becomes compromised, it can cause transepidermal epidermal water loss (TEWL). This is the water that passes through the epidermis and evaporates on the surface of the skin. When this occurs, the skin becomes inflamed and dry, leading to conditions like acne, acne, and psoriasis. Ceramides can decrease TEWL, which boosts hydration.
Rejuvenate Skin
Skin changes as you age, and you lose proteins like collagen. In addition to this, the skin becomes thinner, and the signs of age become visible. These signs include sagging, lines, and wrinkles. Ceramides have properties that help the skin retain moisture. In addition, ceramide creams stimulate keratinocytes, which helps make keratin.
UV Damage
Moisturizers that contain ceramides can help provide a protective barrier against UV damage. UV rays can be the cause of fine lines, wrinkles, and changes to pigment. In addition, sun damage changes the skin over time.
Final Thoughts
Ceramides are found naturally in the skin, which makes them safe for all skin types. If you have skin concerns, such as dry, flaky, or broken skin, ceramides can help manage those skin conditions. In general, ceramides are an essential part of the skin structure. They can improve the skin barrier’s function, keep the skin supple and hydrated, and prevent moisture loss.
