
What are ceramides?
Ceramides are lipophilic molecules that belong to the sphingolipidic compounds. They play an important role in skin health, especially in maintaining the skin barrier and regulating moisture levels.
The skin barrier consists of several layers of skin cells surrounded by lipids. Ceramides are an essential component of this lipid matrix. They help to hold the cells together, strengthen the skin structure and prevent the penetration of foreign substances. In addition, ceramides have the ability to bind water in the skin, which helps to maintain a sufficient moisture balance.
A lack of ceramides in the skin can lead to a compromised skin barrier, which can result in dryness, irritation, redness and other skin problems. There are several factors that can contribute to a decrease in ceramide levels in the skin, such as aging, environmental stresses, excessive washing and the use of certain skin care products.
You can take the following measures to improve the ceramide supply to your skin:
- Use skin care products rich in ceramides: Choose moisturizers, lotions or serums that contain ceramides. These can help to increase ceramide levels in the skin and strengthen the barrier function.
- Avoid aggressive cleansing products: Use mild cleansers that do not overly strip the skin’s natural lipids. Washing too often or using strong cleansers can reduce ceramide levels in the skin.
- Protect your skin from environmental stresses: Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Avoid excessive sun exposure, smoking and other environmental stressors that can damage the skin.
- Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, can contribute to skin health. These fatty acids are precursors for the formation of ceramides.
- Drink enough water: Adequate hydration can help to improve the skin’s moisture balance.
It is important to note that the topical application of ceramides in skin care products can help to increase ceramide levels in the upper layer of the skin. To achieve a deeper effect, ceramide-rich supplements can also be considered. If you have specific skin problems or need targeted treatment