Why Ceramides Are Essential in Moisturisers
If you’ve ever wondered why your skin feels dry, rough, or sensitive—especially when your moisturiser just isn’t cutting it—ceramides might be the missing piece in your skincare routine. Let’s break down why ceramides are so important, how to spot when your skin needs them, and what to look for in moisturisers to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
What Are Ceramides and Why Do They Matter?
Ceramides are naturally occurring lipids (fats) that make up over 50% of your skin’s outer layer. Think of them as the “mortar” holding your skin cells (the “bricks”) together. Their main jobs are:
Locking in moisture and preventing water loss
Strengthening your skin barrier to keep out irritants, allergens, and germs
Keeping your skin soft, smooth, and resilient.
When your skin has sufficient ceramides, it remains hydrated, plump, and protected from environmental stressors such as wind, pollution, and harsh weather.
Why Ceramides Are Key for Hydration
Ceramides are crucial for preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL)—that’s when moisture escapes from your skin, leaving it dry and vulnerable. By sealing in hydration, ceramides help your skin stay soft and supple, even in tough conditions.
As we age, or if we use harsh products, our natural ceramide levels drop. This can lead to dryness, flakiness, and even conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Signs Your Skin Needs Ceramides
Wondering if your skin is crying out for ceramides? Look for these clues:
Persistent dryness or flakiness, even after moisturising.
Skin feels rough, tight, or looks dull
Increased sensitivity or irritation to products you used to tolerate.
Redness, itching, or burning sensations
Fine lines appearing more pronounced, and skin feeling less bouncy.
More frequent breakouts or blemishes—your barrier might be compromised.
How to Choose Skincare Products with Ceramides
If you’re experiencing any of the above, adding ceramide-rich products to your routine can make a big difference. Here’s what to look for:
Check the label: Look for “ceramide” in the ingredients list.
Choose Dermaviduals DMS Base Creams; DMS stands for Derma Membrane Structure which is formed by a unique blend of skin identical lipids including water, Triglycerides (from coconut oil, olives, shea butter), Phytosterols (from shea butter), Phosphatidylcholine (from soybean lecithin), Squalane (from olives) and Ceramides (from yeast)
Pair with humectants: Products that also contain hyaluronic acid or glycerin can boost hydration even more.
Use as the last step: Apply ceramide moisturisers after serums to lock everything in.
Signs Your Moisturiser Isn’t Working (and Might Be Making Things Worse)
If your moisturiser isn’t right for you, your skin will let you know. Watch for:
Skin feeling dry again within an hour or two of application.
Burning, stinging, or redness after use—this could mean a pH imbalance or irritation.
New breakouts or little white bumps (milia) forming.
Persistent flakiness or rough patches,
Uneven skin—some areas feel oily while others stay dry.
Skin changes colour (yellowing, blotching)—stop using the product immediately.
Sometimes, a moisturiser that’s too watery can actually draw water out of your skin, making dryness worse. If your skin isn’t absorbing your moisturiser or still feels parched, it’s time to switch to a formula with proven hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid.
Our Top Picks for Moisturisers
Dermaviduals DMS Base Creams are our all-time favourites for supporting skin health, keeping your skin hydrated, and working with your skin, not against it. DMS stands for Derma Membrane Structure, which is formed by a unique blend of skin-identical lipids, including water, Triglycerides (from coconut oil, olives, shea butter), Phytosterols (from shea butter), Phosphatidylcholine (from soybean lecithin), Squalane (from olives) and Ceramides (from yeast). Each ingredient offers its own unique superpower to combat skin sensitivity, all while strengthening and supporting the skin's health. The best bit – our DMS Base Creams are fully customisable! Utilising our extracts, liposomes, nanoparticles, mono substances or oils, the power is at the fingertips of your skin treatment therapist to curate the perfect formulation to target your skin condition or concern. The deep penetration of individual actives provided by our DMS Base Creams is a surefire way to accelerate results and ensure skin health at all times. Choose;
Dermaviduals DMS High Classic Plus Base Cream - for dehydrated skin
Dermaviduals DMS High Classic Base Cream - for sensitive skin
Dermaviduals DMS Classic Plus Base Cream - for acne-prone skin
Top Food Sources of Ceramides:
Dairy products: Milk, yoghurt, kefir, and cheese are naturally rich in ceramides
Eggs: Another animal-based source that supports ceramide levels
Whole grains: Wheat germ and brown rice are excellent plant-based options
Soybeans and corn: These plant foods contain ceramides and their building blocks
Sweet potatoes: A good source of plant-derived ceramides
How Nutrition Supports Ceramide Production:
Sphingolipids: Ceramides are a type of sphingolipid, and foods high in these (like dairy, eggs, fish, and soy) can support ceramide content in the skin
Healthy fats: While not direct sources of ceramides, omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, walnuts, chia seeds) support overall skin barrier health, which works synergistically with ceramides.
Ceramides are essential for maintaining healthy, hydrated, and resilient skin. If you’re noticing dryness, sensitivity, or that your current moisturiser just isn’t doing the job, it might be time to reach for a ceramide-rich product. Your skin will thank you with a smoother, softer, and more comfortable feel, no matter the season.
