What Are Ceramides?

The science of the lipid "mortar" that keeps your skin and hair barrier intact.

The Science of Your Barrier

What Are Ceramides?

Ceramides are a family of waxy lipid molecules that are fundamental to our bodies. They are composed of a sphingosine base and a fatty acid.[1] Making up about half of the lipids that form the "mortar" in the "brick and mortar" model of our skin, they hold cells together to create a protective, moisture-locking barrier.[1][2] This same principle applies to hair, where they act as a "cuticle cement".[3][6]

Sustainable Sourcing Through Biotechnology

While historically sourced from animals, modern ceramides are produced through advanced, sustainable methods. Bio-fermentation uses microorganisms like yeast to create nature-identical ceramides that are pure, vegan, and highly effective, ensuring maximum biocompatibility with your skin and hair.[7][2]

Cross-section diagram of the skin's stratum corneum showing the brick-and-mortar structure, with ceramides forming the lipid mortar between skin cells

Visualizing How Ceramides Work

Diagram illustrating the moisture pathway in healthy vs. dry skin with depleted ceramides Illustration showing how ceramides create a barrier to lock in moisture and protect from irritants

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.