'How are they different to peptides?' All your ceramide questions, answered.

When it comes to skincare, ceramides are one of the unsung heroes of your ingredients list. 

Sometimes you know they’re in there, other times we think they’re just the sidekick, alongside whatever heavy hitter it is that we’re really after. Since they are often overlooked, they’re also rarely explained – which means you could be missing out the stellar benefits they offer your skin.

So, we’ve gathered some of your most asked questions about ceramides, and answered them.

What are ceramides?

Ceramides are a naturally occurring lipid, that make up over 50 per cent of the skin’s composition. This makes them essential to your skin health and function. A common analogy is to think of your skin cells like bricks, and ceramides are what hold those bricks together. This all happens in that outer layer of your skin, which acts as the first line of defence against external aggressors, as well as helping to keep all the good stuff like moisture in.  

How are they different to peptides?

Ceramides and peptides both have a lot to offer the skin, and often get confused for each other. But, they actually have different roles to play. Peptides are amino-acids, which make up certain proteins needed by the skin, and can even help to stimulate collagen production. They also have less to do with the moisture retention process than ceramides. 

Even though they both naturally occur in the skin, it is beneficial to replenish them through skincare, because factors such as your environment, stress, skin condition or age can deplete them.

Image: Supplied. 

Which skin types are ceramides best for?

Since all skin needs ceramides – all skin types can benefit from them, even combination or oily skin. Many people may consider ceramides grouped into the "just for dry skin" category, but that’s not true. They have something to offer everyone and it’s more about choosing the correct formula to deliver them to your skin.

Opting for a lighter weight texture, such as the Advanced Light Ceramide Capsules Strengthening and Refining Serum, is a great option for those with more naturally oily or combination skin. In addition to vitamin E and hemi-squalane, this product contains phytoceramides and cyclopeptides that help fortify the skin and minimise pores. 

Hemi-squalane is a version of squalene with a lighter molecular weight, making it fast-absorbing so you can get all those juicy benefits sooner. Overall, it can help to improve your texture and clarity of the skin, whilst moisturising the skin and strengthening your skin barrier, which is important for all skin types. 

Image: Supplied. 

What are some benefits of using ceramides?

Including ceramides in your skincare routine can provide a range of benefits, no matter what skin type or issues you’re dealing with. They’re essential to maintaining balance in the outer layers of your skin, helping to protect against external and environmental irritants. By taking care of your skin barrier with ceramides, you can protect your skin from dryness, redness, sensitivity, and breakouts while also increasing moisture levels in the skin.

Image: Supplied. 

What other ingredients do ceramides work well with?

Ceramides work best when combined with other skin-similar ingredients, such as amino acids (hello again peptides), or lipids like squalane. It’s also a good pairing with stellar active ingredients such as vitamin C or retinol. In fact, many people find it beneficial to introduce their actives alongside strengthening ingredients such as ceramides, to help maintain barrier integrity and minimise irritation. One such active with a reputation for being a little difficult is retinol. Many people feel intimidated by it, or are concerned that it can cause undesired irritation.

The Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum is your answer to these concerns. It features retinol in capsule form, alongside other strengthening ingredients, such as ceramides. This means that whilst you’re getting all the powerful renewing effects of the retinol – ceramides are there to hold your skin’s hand through the process and help provide moisture.

Image: Supplied. 

I’ve been including both serums in my routine for the last week and they have absolutely been put to the test by changing weather and lots of stress. The Light Ceramide Capsules are a welcome addition to my morning routine, sinking in fast so that I can get on with the rest of my routine and day. I noticed that my skin had an instant glowy look to it after the first use, and kept improving as the days passed. 

The Retinol Capsules were also a joy to use, and I loved knowing that one capsule was a one and done situation. It contained just the right amount of the potent active alongside the moisturising ceramides, so I didn’t have to worry about accidentally overdoing it. This also fits into my night time routine as my serum step before my moisturiser. On the nights I wasn’t using the retinol, I doubled up by reaching for another of the Light Ceramide Capsules. I really enjoyed that both formulas offered something unique whilst still being easy to use. 

Are ceramides good for acne-prone skin?

Yes, many of the ingredients or formulas we reach for when dealing with acne can be quite active and even a little harsh on the skin – so keeping a strong skin barrier is important. In fact, a compromised barrier can even contribute to acne, since dry or impaired skin can allow acne-causing bacteria deeper into the skin, perpetuating the acne cycle. 

Including nourishing, skin-replenishing ingredients in your acne-focused routine is just as important as any active treatments you might be reaching for. 

Ceramides have so much to offer the skin, both on their own and as a partner to your favourite actives like retinol, and can really help you on your way to your healthiest, strongest skin.

Shop the Advanced Light Ceramide Capsules Strengthening and Refining Serum and the Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum to improve skin texture and enhance radiance. 

Feature Image: Supplied.