If you've heard skin's barrier described as a brick wall, ceramides are a big part of the mortar.
What Are Ceramides?
Ceramides are lipids (fats) found naturally in the outer layer of skin, the stratum corneum. Together with cholesterol and free fatty acids, they fill the spaces between skin cells and help keep water in.
A 2003 review in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology explains that ceramides make up a large share of the lipids in this layer, and that lower ceramide levels are associated with dry, easily irritated skin. In our formulas, ceramides appear as Glycosphingolipids, a plant-derived source of ceramide-type lipids.
What They Do for Skin
Help skin hold on to moisture. Ceramide-containing products help reinforce the lipid layer that slows water loss.
Support a smooth, comfortable feel. When the outer layer is well supported, skin feels softer and less tight.
Support a resilient look. A 2014 review in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology covers the role of ceramides in skin and how they are used in skincare to support the barrier, especially in dry and sensitive skin.
Where You'll Find Them at True Colour Beauty
The Ceramide Night Cream is built around them, along with shea butter and organic sea buckthorn.
The Smoothing Eye Cream brings ceramides to the eye area, and the Color Correcting Ceramide Stick adds them to a complexion product. See all in the Ceramides collection.
How to Use Them
Ceramides are gentle and suit daily use. Apply ceramide creams as the last step of your evening routine. They pair well with hydrators like hyaluronic acid and with niacinamide, which research suggests helps skin make more of its own ceramides.
What the Research Doesn't Say
Skin's barrier lipids work best in balance, and research suggests the ratio of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids matters. A single ingredient won't rebuild the barrier on its own, but ceramide-containing products are a well-supported part of a comforting routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ceramides good for sensitive skin?
Yes. They are a common choice for dry and sensitive routines.
Are your ceramides plant-derived?
Our formulas use glycosphingolipids from plant sources.
Can I use ceramides with retinol alternatives or acids?
Yes. Ceramide creams pair well with active ingredients and help keep skin comfortable.
Are True Colour Beauty products cruelty-free?
Yes. True Colour Beauty is Leaping Bunny certified.
The Mortar in the Wall
Ceramides help skin feel smooth, comfortable and resilient. Explore the True Colour Beauty skincare collection.
Sources
Coderch L, et al. Ceramides and skin function. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2003;4(2):107-129.
Meckfessel MH, Brandt S. The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71(1):177-184.
