Fat molecule that keeps skin hydrated and plump

What do ceramides do?

According to Paula’s Choice, ceramides as the mortar between bricks—if the bricks are your skin cells. Ceramides help hold skin together by forming a protective layer that limits moisture loss and protects against visible damage from pollution and other environmental stressors. In addition, ceramides—even more than retinol, niacinamide, and peptides—are one of the anti-aging “powerhouses” responsible for supporting skin’s dynamic nature. Two particular ceramide precursors—phytosphingosine and sphingolipids—actually help skin make more ceramides.

Essentially, ceramides are important to keep your skin “bouncy” and “plump”looking.

If my skin already contains ceramides, why do I need them in my beauty products?

Age and sun damage reduce the effectiveness of your skin’s natural ceramides—and can eventually deplete them, which weakens your skin’s barrier. The results are drier, rougher skin, wrinkles, irritation, redness, and visible signs of dehydration. This is where skin care knowledge comes into play—because it really is possible to significantly restore what’s been diminished.

What are the benefits of ceramides?

Well-formulated (and properly packaged) skin care products containing ceramides will help reinforce your skin’s barrier and increase hydration—giving you plumper, smoother, firmer-feeling skin with fewer visible lines and wrinkles, as well as fewer signs of sensitivity.

VERDICT: Do look out for ceramide rich creams if you are over 25 years old, suffer from dry skin or are exposed to sun and other environmental stressors.