How to Choose a Ceramide Product

A simple buyer’s guide to picking a ceramide product that delivers.

With ceramides now in everything from cleansers to hair masks, a few simple checks will help you pick a product that actually delivers on the barrier-repair promise.

Look Beyond a Single Ceramide

Ceramides work best in company. The barrier is repaired most effectively when ceramides sit alongside cholesterol and fatty acids in a balanced ratio, so look for the classic trio (Ceramide NP, AP and EOP) or a formula that lists ceramides together with cholesterol and fatty acids.[1]

Match It to Your Concern

For dry or eczema-prone skin, reach for a rich ceramide cream; for sensitivity and redness, choose one paired with soothing actives; for early signs of ageing, look for ceramides with retinol or peptides. For damaged or colour-treated hair, ceramide masks and bond-repair treatments give the biggest payoff.[4]

Check the Formula & Packaging

Don't dismiss "pseudo-ceramides" — these synthetic mimics are stable, high-purity and effective. Humectants such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin are a good sign, as they draw in the water that ceramides then seal in. Opaque, air-tight packaging helps keep these lipids stable and active.[1]

Layer It Correctly

Apply ceramide products after lightweight, water-based serums but before any heavy occlusive balm. They can be used morning and night, and because they're skin-identical they suit most people — though it's always wise to patch-test a new product if your skin is very reactive.[1]

References

  1. Meckfessel, M. H., & Brandt, S. (2014). The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 71(1), 177-184.
  2. Coderch, L., López, O., de la Maza, A., & Parra, J. L. (2003). Ceramides and skin function. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 4(2), 107-129.
  3. Villa, A. L., et al. (2013). The role of ceramides in the hair follicle. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 35(4), 323-331.
  4. Berardesca, E., et al. (2019). The importance of the ceramide-dominant barrier repair approach in atopic dermatitis. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 33(7), 1269-1275.
  5. Ishida, K., et al. (2011). Effects of a ceramide-containing shampoo and conditioner on the barrier function of the stratum corneum in hair. Skin Research and Technology, 17(3), 324-329.
  6. Lee, S. H., & An, S. (2020). The effect of ceramide-containing formulations on the damaged hair. Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Scientists of Korea, 46(1), 1-8.
  7. Blaak, J., & Draelos, Z. D. (2021). The science behind vegan and bio-fermented skincare ingredients. Cosmetics & Toiletries, 136(5).
  8. Loden, M., & Maibach, H. I. (Eds.). (2012). Dry skin and moisturizers: chemistry and function. CRC press.
  9. Turner, G. A., & Hoptroff, M. (2018). The role of the scalp in hair biology: The scalp barrier and its role in mediating scalp health and hair condition. International Journal of Trichology, 10(6), 255.
  10. CeraVe Brand Communications. (n.d.). The Role of Ceramides in Hair & Scalp Health. Retrieved from CeraVe official website.
  11. Guenin, E., et al. (2015). A new ceramide-like molecule for hair care. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 37(S2), 10-16.
  12. MONPURE London. (n.d.). The Science of Ceramide NG in Haircare. Retrieved from MONPURE official website.
  13. Trüeb, R. M. (2016). The impact of oxidative stress on hair. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 38(S1), 25-30.