In recent years, ceramides have become one of the most important ingredients in skincare. They are found in face creams, serums and lotions for dry, sensitive or damaged skin. What makes them special, and why do dermatologists recommend them to almost everyone?

What are ceramides?

Ceramides are natural lipids (fats) that make up about 50% of the lipids in the skin’s outer layer. They act like mortar, holding skin cells together and helping maintain a strong protective barrier.

When skin has enough ceramides, it:

• retains moisture;
• feels softer and more elastic;
• is better protected against environmental pollution;
• is less prone to irritation and redness.

Age, UV exposure, harsh cleansers and active ingredients such as retinol and AHA/BHA acids can reduce natural ceramide levels. Skin then becomes drier, more sensitive and loses moisture more easily.

What are the benefits?

Strengthening the skin barrier

Ceramides primarily restore and strengthen the skin’s protective layer. This helps protect against external irritants and reduce moisture loss.

Lasting hydration

Ceramides are not humectants themselves, but they help skin retain moisture for longer. Skin feels smoother, plumper and more comfortable.

Reducing sensitivity

If skin often becomes red, feels tight or reacts to cosmetics, ceramides may help restore its balance and reduce signs of irritation.

Helping with signs of ageing

Well-hydrated skin with a strong barrier looks smoother, making fine lines less noticeable.

Who are ceramides suitable for?

Ceramides suit almost every skin type and are particularly recommended for:

• dry skin;
• sensitive skin;
• dehydrated skin;
• mature skin;
• skin after using retinol or acids;
• skin prone to redness;
• skin with a damaged barrier.

Oily and combination skin can also have a damaged barrier and benefit from ceramides.

Which ingredients work well with them?

Ceramides pair well with other skin-supporting ingredients:

• Hyaluronic acid for additional hydration.
• Panthenol to soothe skin.
• Niacinamide to support the barrier and brighten skin.
• Centella asiatica for sensitive skin care.
• Peptides to maintain elasticity.
• Squalane for extra nourishment.

When should you use a ceramide cream?

Ceramides can be used morning and evening. They are most often found in moisturisers applied as the final skincare step before SPF in the morning, or the last step of an evening routine.

If you use retinol or acids, a ceramide cream helps reduce the risk of dryness and irritation.

How do you recognise ceramides in an ingredient list?

Look for these names:

• Ceramide NP
• Ceramide AP
• Ceramide EOP
• Ceramide NG
• Ceramide AS

The more different ceramides a formula contains, the more effectively it may help strengthen the skin barrier.

Popular Korean products with ceramides

If you are looking for effective ceramide products, consider:

• Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream
• Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream
• TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner
• COSRX Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream
• Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
• Skin1004 Probio-Cica Enrich Cream

These products help restore the skin barrier, reduce dryness and provide lasting hydration.