What are ceramides and how can they benefit my skin?

This week we wanted to explore and discuss ceramides. When it comes to skincare buzzwords, ceramides really need to hire collagen's PR firm to spread their message and their benefits much further.

Here at Coraline Skincare we want to do our bit to share some knowledge on the benefits and importance that they play in our skin's natural function, and how we can boost them in a simple 3-step facial routine using our 100% organic and natural products.

1. What are ceramides and how do they benefit my skin?
Ceramides are lipid molecules naturally found in the skin's outermost layer known as the stratum corneum (they make up around 40% of this outer layer). These lipid molecules play a crucial role in maintaining the skin's natural barrier function, which is essential for healthy, hydrated, and radiant skin. Their protective lipid layer plays a vital role in how our skin looks and feels, preventing dryness and protecting our skin.
Think of ceramides as the mortar between the bricks of a wall; they help to hold skin cells together, creating a protective barrier that locks in moisture and keeps irritants out.



One of the primary benefits of ceramides for the skin is their ability to enhance hydration. By reinforcing the skin's barrier, ceramides help prevent moisture loss, keeping the skin plump and hydrated. This not only helps to combat dryness but also contributes to a smoother complexion.

Additionally, ceramides have anti-inflammatory properties, making them beneficial for soothing and calming irritated or sensitive skin. They can help alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and rosacea, promoting overall skin health and comfort.

2. What skin types can benefit from boosting ceramides?
Young skin produces lots of ceramides, but as we age ceramide production in our skin reduces and the quality and quantity of ceramides also reduces.
Ceramide production in our skin reduces in this way as we age, just as our body also makes less collagen as we age. Sun damage can also decrease our skin’s ceramide content. This all affects our skin barrier and can lead to dry, rough skin, wrinkles, redness and dehydration as the ceramides we have are not preventing moisture loss like they once did when we produced more of them.
Ceramide boosting is good for all skin types, but it is particularly beneficial if you have dry or sensitive skin, something that can strike at any age but especially as we get older. 

If you struggle with redness, flakiness, or a compromised skin barrier, incorporating products which boost your ceramide production into your skincare routine can help replenish and strengthen the skin's protective layer, leading to improved hydration and resilience.

Moreover, boosting ceramides can also benefit those with oily or acne-prone skin. Contrary to popular belief, oily skin can still be dehydrated and in need of moisture. By maintaining optimal hydration levels, ceramides can help regulate oil production and prevent the skin from overcompensating by producing excess sebum. This can ultimately help reduce the risk of breakouts and promote a more balanced complexion.

3. How can I introduce a ceramide boosting facial oil into my skincare routine?
Incorporating a ceramide-boosting facial oil into your skincare regime is a simple and effective way to reap its benefits. Here's the simple, 3-step routine we recommend to boost our skin's natural ceramide production and keep our skin hydrated, glowing and healthy:

Step 1: Luminous Lavender cleansing balm - gently cleanses your face to  effectively remove make-up, sunscreen and pollution whilst also hydrating and moisturising your skin, leaving it with a radiant and refreshed glow. Massage into your skin using circular motions to ensure oils can break down and remove the impurities from your day. Soak a face cloth in warm water and gently wipe off 2-3 times in circular motions to remove the excess balm.

Step 2: Botanical Balance facial tonic - Our 100% organic facial tonic, Botanical Balance is a great 'primer' to boost the hydrating effects of our oils. Mist over your face after cleansing to balance skin's pH to promote a healthy microbiome and help to immediately soothe any dry or red areas.

Step 3: You Must Be Sisters facial oil - our rich and velvety facial oil, You Must Be Sisters, boosts skin's natural ceramide production, which diminishes as we age*. The passion seed oil and rosehip oil in You Must be Sisters are rich in Linoleic acid which is an essential fatty acid and is a key component for our skin's production of ceramides. Massage 6-8 drops into cleansed, damp skin using your fingertips.

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*Read study here