Naturally present in the epidermis, ceramides make up 40% of the inter-lipid cement that allows for the cohesion of skin cells. They are essential for maintaining hydrated skin. Increasingly common in skincare and haircare products, find all the information you need to know about them.
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What you need to know about ceramides.
Summary
- What are ceramides?
- The benefits of ceramides for the skin
- The benefits of ceramides for hair
- The contraindications of ceramides
- In which products can we find ceramides?
- Sources
Published December 15, 2021,
updated on July 31, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
4 min read
What are ceramides?
Ceramides belong to a heterogeneous class of lipids found in the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis. They were first described and characterized in the early 80s by researchers WERTZ and DOWNING, followed by Peter ELIAS. Today, 11 classes of ceramides have been identified.
Structurally, ceramides are sphingolipids : the fatty acid is linked to sphingosine by an amide bond. Ceramides are in cohesion with other lipids such as cholesterol and form a highly ordered lamellar structure called skin barrier. This barrier helps to limit transepidermal water loss, also known as insensible water loss. In other words, it is essential for maintaining a good level of skin hydration and protecting the skin from external aggressions. A decrease in ceramide content or a change in their chemical structures can lead to various skin disorders.
In cosmetics, ceramides are increasingly being used in the formulation of various skincare products. They can be of synthetic or plant-based origin.
The benefits of ceramides for the skin.
Ceramides are renowned skin care agents for the following two properties:
Strengthening the skin barrier and preventing dehydration.
Ceramides have molecular structures similar to certain lipids found in the stratum corneum; these molecules are thus described as biomimetic and are very well tolerated by the epidermis. They easily integrate into the natural lipid barrier to strengthen its protective action and reduce transepidermal water loss.
Normalize the natural desquamation process of the skin.
Type VI ceramides are also alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA). They therefore have an exfoliating effect and stimulate cellular renewal, resulting in a smoothed skin texture and unclogged pores.
The benefits of ceramides for hair.
In the field of hair care, ceramides are also increasingly favored. The lipids of the hair cuticle and cortex are degraded due to the numerous aggressions suffered by the hair (coloring, shampooing, brushing...) and cannot be naturally replaced. Ceramides, due to their biomimetic nature, insert themselves into the lipid cement of the hair fiber and restore the cohesion of the cuticle. The flaws, also called "scales," are filled, the cuticle is smoothed, and the cortex is better protected. Split ends are thus filled, the hair becomes less brittle, smoother, and shinier.
In regards to the scalp, ceramides strengthen the skin barrier, thus combating dehydration. This in turn helps prevent the onset of itching and dandruff.
The contraindications of ceramides.
Whether derived from plants or synthesized, this active ingredient has no contraindications. Ceramides are recognized for their safety and excellent skin tolerance. Therefore, they can be applied to all skin types, even the most sensitive ones.
In which products can we find ceramides?
In topical application, ceramides are found in facial sheet masks, restorative creams, protective winter creams for hands, feet, and face, as well as in shower gels. Regarding hair care, it is possible to find ceramides in protective shampoos and conditioners, fortifying restorative treatments, balms and masks, as well as in styling products for curly, kinky, or straightened hair...
Typology has developed two treatments based on plant-derived ceramides obtained through biotechnology:
The hair mask restorative with 0.3% biomimetic ceramides and avocado oil to deeply repair and nourish the hair fiber, smooth and soften the hair, and prevent the appearance of split ends.
The Dryness & Blemishes Serum with 1% ceramides and lavender extract to repair the skin barrier and reduce skin eruptions.
Sources:
DOWNING D.T. & al. Ceramides of pig epidermis: structure determination. Journal of Lipid Research (1983).
ELIAS P. M. Epidermal lipids, barrier function, and desquamation.,Journal of Investigative Dermatology. (1983).
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