Ceramide is an important component of skin barrier function and plays an important role in maintaining skin health. These lipids are often called ceramide molecules, a fatty acid composed of sphingosine and a lipid tail.
skin barrier function
Ceramides are a key element in the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis. They help form a protective barrier that locks in moisture and prevents environmental irritants and pathogens from entering the skin.
Ceramide Type:
Ceramides are a different class of lipids, divided into different types based on their chemical structure. There are natural and synthetic ceramides. Natural ceramides are found in the outer layer of skin, in animals such as cattle, and in plants such as soybeans. Synthetic ceramides (also called pseudoceramides) are man-made. Synthetic ceramides are more commonly used in skin care products because they contain no contaminants and are more stable than natural ceramides. There are 12 known types of ceramides, labeled ceramide 1 to ceramide 12. Each type has a unique structure and function within the skin barrier. Here is a brief overview of the main ceramide types:
1. Ceramide 1 (Ceramide EOS):
Structure: It is composed of sphingosine and fatty acids connected by ester bonds.
Function: Plays a role in maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier.
2. Ceramide 2 (Ceramide NS):
Structure: Contains sphingosine and fatty acids linked by amide bonds.
Function: Contributes to barrier function and helps prevent skin moisture loss.
3. Ceramide 3 (ceramide NP):
Structure: similar to ceramide 2, consisting of sphingosine and fatty acids connected by amide bonds.
Function: Supports the skin barrier, helps retain moisture, and contributes to overall skin health.
4. Ceramide 4 (ceramide EOP):
Structure: It is composed of sphingosine and fatty acids connected by ester bonds.
Function: Helps maintain the skin barrier, prevents water loss, and promotes hydration.
5. Ceramide 5:
Structure: similar to ceramide 4, consisting of sphingosine and fatty acids connected by ester bonds.
Function: Contributes to the overall structure of the skin barrier.
6. Ceramide 6:
Structure: Contains sphingosine and fatty acids linked by amide bonds.
Function: Supports the skin barrier and helps prevent dehydration.
7. Ceramide 7:
Structure: It is composed of sphingosine and fatty acids connected by ester bonds.
Function: Plays the role of maintaining the skin barrier and preventing moisture loss.
8. Ceramide 8:
Structure: Contains sphingosine and fatty acids linked by amide bonds.
Function: Contributes to the integrity of the skin barrier and helps retain moisture.
9. Ceramide 9:
Structure: It is composed of sphingosine and fatty acids connected by ester bonds.
Function: Supports the skin barrier and helps prevent moisture loss.
Contributes to the overall health and function of the skin
The skin naturally produces ceramides, which contribute to the integrity of the skin barrier. Together, these ceramide types form a complex and effective skin barrier:
- Maintain Hydration: Ceramides contribute to the skin's ability to retain moisture, prevent dehydration, and maintain optimal hydration levels.
- Protection: The skin barrier formed by ceramides protects against external factors such as pollutants, allergens and microorganisms.
- Prevents Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL): Ceramides help prevent dryness and irritation by minimizing moisture loss from the skin.
Impaired ceramide levels
However, factors such as aging, environmental stress, and certain skin care habits may cause ceramide levels to decline.
Atopic dermatitis and eczema: People with conditions such as atopic dermatitis or eczema often have lower ceramide levels, resulting in compromised skin barrier function.
Application of ceramide in skin care products
Due to their importance to skin health, ceramides are often included in skin care products. Moisturizers, creams and serums with ceramides are designed to replenish and support the skin's natural barrier.
You may see the following ceramides on skin care labels:
- Ceramide 1, also known as Ceramide EOS
- Ceramide 2, also known as Ceramide NS or NG
- Ceramide 3, also known as Ceramide NP
- Ceramide 6-II, also known as Ceramide AP
- Ceramide 9, also known as Ceramide EOP
- Phytosphingosine
- Sphingosine
Your skin is naturally composed of ceramides. But ceramide levels can decrease over time, causing dry skin. Research shows that dry skin is caused by decreased levels of ceramides 1 to 6.
You can use ceramide moisturizers, toners, and serums to moisturize and restore the health of your skin. These products replenish the skin's natural ceramide production. Added ceramides lock in moisture and prevent its loss. Research shows that skin care products containing anti-inflammatory and penetration enhancers can improve skin absorption of ceramides, relieve skin conditions, and restore healthy skin.
Ceramide Supplements
Some oral supplements claim to support skin health by delivering ceramides from within. However, the efficacy and safety of such supplements may vary, and it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before taking them.
Precautions:
While ceramides are generally well tolerated, it's important to choose skin care products and supplements from reputable sources to ensure quality and efficacy.
Individuals with specific skin conditions or concerns should seek personalized advice from a dermatologist or skin care professional.
In summary, ceramides are an integral part of the skin’s barrier function, retaining moisture and resisting external stress. Incorporating ceramide-rich skin care products may be beneficial, especially for individuals with conditions related to compromised skin barrier. Always consult a skin care professional for personalized advice based on your individual skin needs.
