So Ceramides are something that is in so many skincare products these days, from cleansers to creams & masks, they’re almost everywhere.
But… What actually are they?
Ceramides are lipids (fats) found in the skin that help form the skin's barrier and retain moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and protected from environmental damage. They are essential for maintaining healthy skin structure and function.
So…where do the ones in skincare come from?
Ceramides used in skincare products typically come from three main sources:
1. Synthetic Ceramides:
These are lab-created to mimic the natural ceramides found in human skin. They are widely used in skincare formulations for their stability and effectiveness in restoring the skin barrier.
2. Plant-derived Ceramides:
Known as phytoceramides, these are extracted from plants like wheat, rice, and soy. They function similarly to human ceramides and are popular in natural or vegan skincare products.
3. Animal-derived Ceramides:
Although less common, some ceramides are extracted from animal sources, usually from bovine or porcine skin, but these are often replaced by synthetic or plant-based alternatives in modern formulations.
Most skincare brands typically opt for synthetic or plant-derived ceramides due to their compatibility and sustainability.
(Mine are plant-derived)
But…I’ve seen different ceramides, what is the difference?
The differences between Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, and Ceramide EOP lie in their specific molecular structures and roles in the skin’s barrier:
Ceramide NP
This ceramide has a simple, non-polar structure, making it highly effective at restoring and maintaining the skin's moisture barrier. It is typically used to help replenish skin lipids and prevent water loss.
Ceramide AP
This is a more complex ceramide with different fatty acid chains. It helps with both moisture retention and enhancing the skin's flexibility, making it incredible for improving skin elasticity and smoothness.
Ceramide EOP
This ceramide contains an esterified omega-hydroxy fatty acid, making it essential for repairing damaged skin barriers. It helps strengthen and protect the skin, especially after exposure to harsh environmental factors.
So from this, you can see why I just HAD to include them as core ingredients in my Brightening Clay Mask!
When I was creating this mask I wanted to create a clay mask that offered both deep cleansing qualities like most clay masks do, but I wanted to ensure my mask was different. I wanted to ensure it would also deliver you incredible skin healing and repairing qualities. The Kallistia family here have delicate skin, so we all needed a really restorative mask too! By incorporating these 3 ceramides, alongside things like zinc, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, Vitamins B3 & E, plus Wild watermelon seed oil, I was able to ensure we all got a mask that was suitable for all of our skin types and could deliver the best of both the cleansing and the hydrating & repairing worlds!
So what are you waiting for? Get your hands on this epic, multifaceted mask & experience the difference for yourself!
Talk soon,
K xx
