During the winter season, the harsh, cold, outdoor temperatures mixed with the dryness of the indoor heating systems can often strip our skin of its natural moisture. Additionally, if we’re not using hydration-focused products, this can also make things worse– leading our skin to further dryness. Furthermore, if you are currently experiencing dry, flaky or irritated skin during this time, it could be because your skin lacks sufficient ceramides, which are essential to boosting hydration levels in the skin.
“Ceramides are naturally occurring molecules in our skin that play an essential role in keeping the skin barrier structurally intact and hydrated,” Dr. Lori Aliksanian, a dermatologist and founder of MedBeautyLA, tells ESSENCE. “Ceramides participate in collagen production stimulation and protect the skin from free radical damage, which means that ceramides can prevent signs of skin aging.”
Dr. Aliksanian also shares which skin types are more susceptible to a lower ratio of ceramides. “While everyone’s skin contains ceramides, studies have shown that patients with skin conditions” such as Eczema or Atopic Dermatitis, “have an abnormally low ratio of ceramides in their skin,” Dr. Aliksanian says. “This makes these patients prone to dryness, cracking, itching and overall more prone to having a compromised skin barrier.”
All skin types can benefit from ceramide creams for boosting hydration and are generally free of side effects. As Dr. Aliksanian says, “they are non irritating to the skin and very well tolerated as long as there aren’t additional chemicals or fragrances added to the formulation.”
Lucky for you, there are plenty of ceramide-enriched skincare products available on the market, formulated to moisturize dry skin. Below you’ll find some of the best ceramide skincare products that can help hydrate your skin: everything from an avocado-infused serum to a do-it-all moisture with snow mushroom in it.
01
SkinMedica TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream
Dr. Aliksanian recommends this cream to her clients, saying “it’s also great for dry winter skin and post procedures such as laser resurfacing to restore that skin barrier function.”
Available at www.dermstore.com
02
Glow Recipe Avocado Soothing Skin Barrier Serum with Ceramides
This vegan serum contains avocado, rice milk, and allantoin. It helps soothe and reduce dryness, redness, and irritation on all skin types. Also, it is cruelty-free.
Available at www.sephora.com
03
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Serum Toner
This two-in-one serum-toner is suitable for all skin types and contains panthenol to moisturize, tone, and nourish your skin.
Available at www.sephora.com
04
La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Moisturizing Cream
This cream is formulated with shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide to provide your skin with 48-hour hydration. Additionally, the prebiotic thermal water present in the lotion helps to rebalance your skin.
Available at www.ulta.com
05
Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Nourishing Whipped Refillable Moisturizer
This moisturizer targets fine lines and wrinkles, and is suitable for all skin types. It contains a mix of African oils, AP, EOP, NP, and phytosphingosine, which provide moisture whenever you need it.
Available at www.sephora.com
06
Naturium Plant Ceramide Rich Moisture Cream
This cream has plant-derived ceramides to strengthen the skin’s barrier and relieve dry skin.
Available at www.amazon.com
07
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
This dermatologist-tested moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid and MVE technology that leaves your skin feeling smooth and can be used for both body and face.
Available at www.amazon.com
08
EADEM Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer with Ceramides + Peptides
For those experiencing rashes, this moisturizer soothes and brightens with tetrapeptide-30, snow mushroom, and niacinamide.
Available at www.sephora.com
09
Mario Badescu A.H.A. & Ceramide Face Moisturizer
This moisturizer can help rejuvenate and replenish your skin with its nourishing ingredients like lemongrass and aloe vera.
Available at www.mariobadescu.com
10
Supergoop! Daily Dose Hydra-Ceramide Boost + SPF 40 Face Oil
This face oil is a powerful product that provides your skin with the necessary SPF protection. It is specifically designed for dry skin and contains ingredients like squalane and hyaluronic acid to provide and retain moisture in your skin.
Available at www.sephora.com
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