CERAMIDES ARE ONE OF THE KNIGHTS IN SHINING ARMOUR ON SKIN BARRIER

Ceramides are a family of waxy lipid molecules. A ceramide is composed of sphingosine and a fatty acid joined by an amide bond. Sphingosine is a long-chain amino alcohol, the backbone of sphingolipids, featuring an 18-carbon backbone with two hydroxyl (-OH) groups, one amino (-NH2) group at carbon 2, and a Trans double bond between carbons 4 and 5, making it amphiphilic (both water-loving and fat-loving) and crucial for cell signalling and membrane structure. Ceramides are essential waxy lipids (fats) naturally in your skin, acting like "mortar" to hold skin cells ("bricks") together, forming a strong, protective outer barrier that keeps moisture in and irritants out. They are crucial for hydration, defence against environmental damage, and preventing dryness, but their levels decline with age or harsh conditions, making topical ceramide skincare products vital for replenishing them to maintain healthy, supple skin, suitable for sensitive types too.