A Healthy Skin Barrier - Here Is What You Need to Know about Ceramides

There are many nutritional benefits of consuming healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, salmon, nuts, and various oils. Your organs depend on them to function at their best, but you've heard that before, right? Your skin is your largest organ and as it turns out, the topical application of fats (aka ceramides) becomes equally important. Research by market analysts Mintel discovered that many skincare lovers have heard of ceramides, however, only 7% of you really know what they are.

It is easy to get caught up in trendy skincare products, like retinols, and hyaluronic acid (yeah, I just said that, but that is another article). Using these products are fine, even great as long as Ceramides are not ignored or replaced by the trendy alternative. In fact, in order for these other products to perform their best, your skin barrier needs to remain healthy. Getting back to basics, Ceramides are the real key to rejuvenating your skin.

Ceramides are lipids or fats that occur naturally in the outer layer of your skin. They are over 50% of your skin's make up so they play an essential role in how your skin appears, how it responds to environmental stressors, and how it ages.

Ceramides are the "glue" that holds your skin cells together. They help create a protective barrier to keep the bad stuff out and lock moisture in. It keeps your skin plump and bouncy. This is why they are such an important anti-aging ingredient. 

If my skin has Ceramides, why do I need them in skincare?

As you age, your natural level of Ceramides becomes depleted. Sun damage and other environmental factors can also reduce the effectiveness of your natural skin barrier. When this happens you can experience TDWL (transdermal water loss), meaning that the hydration that is supposed to be held in, evaporates. That causes rougher, drier skin, wrinkles, irritation, redness, and sensitivity. Some skin dry conditions, like rosacea, eczema, and certain types of acne are associated with low ceramide levels, which allow the skin to become very easily irritated and sensitive.

What skin type can use Ceramides?

All skin types! Since Ceramides are a skin-identical ingredient they are well handled by oily skin, dry skin, and everything in between.

What benefits will I see by using Ceramides?

Restoring and supporting your skin's natural barrier will increase hydration, giving you plumper, smoother skin. It helps reduce redness and signs of aging. 

How do I know if there are Ceramides in my skincare?

It will be listed on the ingredients list as ceramide AP, EOP, NG, NP, or NS. There are also ingredients that are considered precursors to Ceramides, meaning they encourage your skin to produce more of its own. These would be listed as phytosphingosine and sphingosine.

Can I combine Ceramides with other skincare products?

Ceramides are one of those great ingredients that can be used with other skincare products very easily. They add huge value after exfoliation, whether it is physical or chemical exfoliation, following up with Ceramides can reduce irritation and soothe your skin. No one ingredient can give you everything you need, so in conjunction with other skin-loving ingredients like glycerin and niacinamide can amplify the benefits.

Lux Elise - Lipid Cue Eluxir  👈🏽 buy it here

⏬ Draws in moisture and aids in the prevention of transdermal water loss

🌌 Delivers key skin barrier essentials to reduce redness

🔆 Brightens dull skin

Key Ingredients 

Lacto-Ceramide - Naturally derived ceramide and liposomes from milk lipids that enhance penetration. Ceramides and lipids make up half of the components of the skin that form the skin barrier. 

Cucumber Hydrosol & Cold-pressed Cucumber Juice - Hydrosols are produced by a water-steam distillation process using fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, or florals. This gives us the benefits of the cellular water of plants without the intensity of essential oils. The calming and hydrating effects of cucumber help even complexion. 

Niacinamide - Also known as vitamin B3, is a brightening superstar. It can improve the appearance of enlarged pores, even skin tone, and diminish the signs of aging.

Snail Secretion Filtrate - Contains compounds that amplify the skin barrier and supports optimal moisture levels for a healthy balanced glow.

Santa Yerba - A natural desert plant rich in sugars and glycoproteins. Fermenting the leaves creates an ultra-hydrating emulsion for smoother softer skin.

How to use it

After cleansing and toning dispense 1-2 pumps into your palm. Warm product between hands and gently press into skin. Follow with other treatments and sunscreen. Alternatively, you can apply after your moisturizer to help lock in hydration (we like this way the best). For external use only. Avoid direct contact with eyes. Discontinue use if an adverse reaction occurs. Patch testing prior to use is advised. For more information, review our patch testing guide.