Why you should give a f**k about ceramides

Move aside niacinamide, this summer’s star skincare ingredient is ceramides

Skincare moves as fast as fashion these days. Just like the ‘It bags’ of fashion, there’s a new ingredient to covet every other week if you believe TikTok and the gram, meaning yet another product to add to your bathroom shelf. But sometimes something truly ground-breaking cuts through the noise. Last year it was niacinamide which had the beauty world abuzz, and in previous years we’ve been riveted by retinol (quite rightly too). So, what’s the superingredient for 2023? Having flown largely under the radar, give a warm welcome to ceramides. “This year we’re going to see a rise in ‘ceramide centric’ products,” says skincare expert Jane Scrivner, “thanks to their ability to keep our skin barrier healthy and balanced, seal in moisture and prevent oxidative damage. Ceramides are a fantastic nourishing and rebalancing ingredient, suitable for all skin types.”

WHAT’S ALL THE FUSS ABOUT?

Ceramides sound like a miracle all-rounder, but how do they work? Scrivner explains the science part. “Ceramides are lipids (also known as fats) that naturally make up 50% of your skin. Ceramides are the glues that hold our skin cells together, helping to lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated, and keeping out pollution, environmental damage and infection.” What happens if there’s a lack of skin ceramides? “Not having enough ceramides has been linked to inflammatory skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea,” Scrivner answers. “They’re a great replenishing ingredient to rebalance your skin’s barrier for healthier skin that you can feel more confident and comfortable in.” There are different types of ceramides, natural and synthetic, that are generally used in skincare. For example for dry or irritated skin, experts suggest looking out for a formula with ceramides 1, 3, or 6-II.

OK, HOW DO I USE CERAMIDES?

Scan the high street beauty stores and you’ll see ceramides everywhere. Most prominent will be on the skincare shelf, and front and centre will be