We all have our own unique skin goals. For some, this means treating pesky post-breakout hyperpigmentation. For others, it's working towards becoming the physical manifestation of a glazed donut à la Hailey Bieber. But paramount to reaching any of the aforementioned epidermis nirvanas is a thriving skin barrier. Enter ceramides, the industry-backed ingredient proven to help moisturize and strengthen the outermost layer of the skin.
From UV rays and harsh weather conditions to DIY chemical peels gone awry (no judgment here), our skin is up against a lot, and you'd be ill-advised to try and treat other skin-related issues without stabilizing your barrier first. No matter where you fall on the skin goals spectrum, we've got you covered on the need-to-know for all things ceramides.
What are ceramides?
Before you slather anything on your face, it's good to have a working definition of what ceramides actually are. "Ceramides are naturally found in the uppermost layers of skin and are a key component of intercellular lipids in the skin," says Dr. Hope Mitchell, a board-certified dermatologist in Perrysburg, Ohio. She explains that ceramides are lipids that function as the building blocks of our skin barrier, which acts as our "first line of defense" against external toxins and pollutants. "Ceramides are basically the mortar between skin cells that hold cells together that make up the skin barrier," says Dr. Mitchell.
There are also different types of ceramides, with 1,3, and 6-11 displaying the most researched-based evidence for improving skin health, explains Dr. Mamina Turegano, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans. "Those are the ones that match or mimic the natural composition of our skin the most," says Dr. Turegano.
Benefits of ceramides for skin
For those of us chasing glass skin and looking to ward off visibly dry skin, ceramides are a skincare must-have. Ceramides are "crucial to providing long-term relief of dryness, irritability and skin sensitivity," explains Dr. Mitchell, who adds that if you struggle with dry skin, especially as temperatures begin to drop, there is a chance you may be lacking in the ceramides department. But beyond restoring moisture, ceramides carry a host of other benefits. "They enhance the vitality of your skin cells and shield your skin from allergens and potential infections caused by microbes such as bacteria and fungi," explains Dr. Mitchell. For those looking to minimize the visible effects of aging, ceramides can also "stimulate anti-aging effects by maintaining your skin's moisture and suppleness," says Dr. Mitchell.
Who should use skincare products with ceramides?
Skincare is rarely a one-size-fits-all-all endeavor. But ceramides are one of the rare skincare ingredients that can be utilized in just about everyone's skincare routine. "Anyone can benefit from ceramides whether you're dry, oily, or acne-prone and, of course, eczema-prone skin," says Dr. Turegano.
Are there any downsides to using ceramides?
Ceramides are a generally safe option for most people, but Dr. Mitchell advises airing on the side of caution when introducing any new ingredients into your skincare routine. "[Ceramides] do not typically exhibit any known side effects. However, it is important to note that individual skin sensitivities can vary when it comes to different skincare products," says Dr. Mitchell.
When in doubt, a patch test is always a great option for introducing new products into your regime. "Apply a dime-sized quantity of the product onto the inner aspect of your forearm [and wait] 24 hours," says Dr. Mitchell.
How do ceramides fit into your skincare routine?
Perhaps one of the best things about ceramides is that they can be used anytime. From face washes and skin tints to nighttime serums and facial oils, many daily products we use contain some form of ceramide. However, since ceramides play such a big role in restoring the skin, using them at night can be especially advantageous.
"[Night usage] offers significant advantages as it is crucial for the skin to repair and retain moisture during this time of increased TEWL (transepidermal water loss)," explains Dr. Mitchell. "For optimal results, it is recommended to apply ceramides as a moisturizer right after a shower to seal in additional moisture," says Dr. Mitchell.
Whether you're getting your ceramides in a serum, cleanser, or skin tint will obviously impact when you should apply it. But as a general rule of thumb, you should try to include ceramides somewhere in the final steps of your routine.
"Reserve the moisturizer for the last step, either before going to bed or right before applying SPF if it's daytime," says Dr. Mitchell.
Now that we know all about this barrier-boosting ingredient, here are eight of the best skincare products with ceramides ranging from finishing face oils to "your skin but better" foundations.
The Best Skincare Products with Ceramides
Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2
This multi-purpose moisturizer from SkinCeuticals contains a patented lipid ratio of 2% pure ceramides and additional skin lipids, including natural cholesterol and fatty acids. It's especially great for those of us who have recently added retinol to our skincare regimen (late in the game, I know), as it has been proven to shorten the adjustment period to retinoids by up to one week. This one-stop shop for barrier-boosting moisture is best suited for aging, normal and dry skin types.
Advanced Génifique Night Cream with Triple Ceramide Complex
The Advanced Génifique Night Cream from Lancôme gives new meaning to the term beauty rest. Powered by a triple ceramide complex and cult fave skincare ingredient, hyaluronic acid, this non-greasy nighttime skin cream works while you sleep so you can say, "I woke up like this" and mean it.
Intensité Volumizing Serum Ultime Targeted Skin Filler
This Intensité Volumizing Serum is perfect for the needle averse amongst us who want the results of facial injectables like Botox and filler—without the pricking. Equipped with a volumizing peptide complex, this serum visibly plumps wrinkle-prone areas (think crows feet, furrow lines, etc.) It also includes a conditioning and softening ceramide blend perfect for giving you the plumpest skin possible—no needles necessary.
Undaria Algae Body Butter
Ceramides aren't just good for the face, and this Undaria Algae Body Butter from Osea is proof. This softening body butter makes skin smooth to the touch and offers the barrier-boosting and hydrating ceramides we love.
Bio-Shield Face Oil
If the idea of putting an "oil" on your face makes you physically recoil, you are not alone. But this Bio-Shield Face Oil from Tata Harper has us rethinking our conceptions. Perfect for those with sensitive skin, this adaptive dry oil nurtures and restores the skin barrier, putting irritated and dry skin to bed. Pro Tip: Use this oil at the end of your skincare routine for an extra boost.
Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Moisturizing Cream for Dry Skin
This moisturizer is a personal fave of mine and the origin of about 80% of the compliments I get about my skin. Clinically proven to reduce dry skin, this moisturizer can be used on the face and body (we love a product that can do both) and contains prebiotic thermal water, shea butter, glycerin, niacinamide and, of course, ceramide-3.
Healing Ointment
If the name wasn't clue enough, CeraVe is something of an OG in the world of ceramides, and all of their products contain the do-good-lipid we love. But their healing ointment is in a league of its own, quickly becoming a hallmark amongst skincare enthusiasts online. Perfect for slugging, I love applying this at the end of my nighttime skincare routine to seal in moisture. At under $20 for 12 ounces, it's one of the more affordable ways to add ceramides to your routine.
Tinted Oleo-Serum Foundation
Makeup that acts as skincare has been a trending topic amongst the beauty community for a while, and it's clear to see why. I mean, who doesn't want a product that will cover blemishes whilst protecting the skin? This tinted serum foundation from Clarins boasts an 80% skincare formula profile, including ceramides and blend of hydrating ingredients, including hazelnut and jojoba oil.