You have probably already heard of ceramides. It is no coincidence, as these lipids have earned a place in the cosmetics sector and we can find them in some products thanks to their properties.
In this article we explain exactly what ceramides are and what effects they have on the skin. In addition, we give you the keys to incorporate a barrier function cream into your skincare routine.
What are ceramides?
Ceramides are a type of fat that is naturally found in the skin. They act as the "cement" that holds the cells of the outermost layer (stratum corneum) together, helping to keep the skin hydrated, strong, and protected. In other words, they reinforce the skin barrier.
As we say, ceramides are naturally present in the skin. However, their amount tends to decrease with age. In addition, there are other factors that contribute to reducing them. For example: cold, pollution, sun exposure, or the use of irritating products.
What are ceramides used for?
The main function of ceramides is to help maintain and reinforce the skin barrier. If you have low levels of ceramides, your skin barrier weakens and your skin loses more water than it should. This would cause:
- Dryness and tightness
- Flaking or roughness
- Increased sensitivity and irritation
- Redness
- Greater vulnerability to external agents (cold, wind, pollution, etc.)
Among the main benefits of ceramides we find:
1. They help maintain hydration
A healthy skin barrier reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), that is, the amount of water lost from the outermost layers of the skin to the outside. Ceramides help maintain the lipid structure of the skin barrier and, therefore, help preserve hydration. This is especially interesting in dry, dehydrated, or tight-feeling skin.
2. They reinforce the skin barrier
The skin barrier protects the body from external factors and helps maintain proper conditions on the surface of the skin. When this barrier is altered, the skin may show increased sensitivity, dryness, flaking, or a feeling of discomfort. Cosmetic products formulated with ceramides can help support barrier function and improve the condition of the skin.
3. They help combat dryness
Skin with a damaged barrier has more difficulty retaining water. This can result in rough, tight, or flaking skin. Ceramides are especially interesting in cosmetics for dry skin, as they provide lipids similar to those we naturally find in the skin barrier.
4. They improve the skin's comfort sensation
When the skin barrier is altered, some products can cause a stinging or uncomfortable sensation. A routine aimed at restoring the barrier, which includes ingredients such as ceramides, can help improve the comfort and appearance of skin that is especially dry or sensitized.
5. They help maintain a healthier-looking skin
Hydration and a proper skin barrier also have an impact on the appearance of the skin. Properly hydrated skin usually presents a smoother, more flexible, and more even appearance, while dryness can make surface lines more visible.
How to use ceramides in the facial routine?
If your goal is to reinforce your skin barrier, there is a LaLuz product that you cannot miss. The Extra Barrier Function Cream is suitable for all skin types and offers the following benefits:
- Regenerates.
- Repairs the skin's hydrolipidic function.
- Soothes and heals the skin.
- Protects against external aggressions.
- Deeply hydrates.
- Antioxidant.
- Anti-aging.
- Anti-wrinkle.
You can incorporate it into your morning and evening routine after acids. For example, in a basic routine:
In the morning
- Cleansing
- Serum
- Cream with ceramides
- Sunscreen
At night
- Cleansing
- Serum
- Specific treatment, if used
- Cream with ceramides
