# Ceramides

> Source: https://thecastindex.com/beauty/ingredients/ceramides — updated 2026-09-25

Ceramides are fats (lipids) that make up much of the skin’s outer barrier. Moisturisers and cleansers add them back to help skin hold water and resist dryness and irritation. They are especially useful for dry, sensitive or over-exfoliated skin and are among the least likely ingredients to cause problems.

- Also on labels as: Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Skin-identical lipids
- Type: Barrier lipid

## What it does

- Replenishes lipids in the skin barrier
- Helps reduce water loss and dryness
- Supports comfort in skin irritated by actives or weather

## Who it suits

Dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin, and anyone using retinoids or exfoliating acids.

## How to use it

1. Use in moisturisers and gentle cleansers morning and evening
2. Apply after serums to help seal in hydration

## Take care

- Very well tolerated; if a ceramide product stings, the cause is usually another ingredient
- For diagnosed eczema, follow a clinician’s emollient plan

## What it pairs with

Pairs with everything, and softens the dryness of retinoids and acids.

## Products in the catalogue that list it

- [CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser](https://thecastindex.com/beauty/cerave-hydrating-facial-cleanser)
- [CeraVe Moisturising Lotion](https://thecastindex.com/beauty/cerave-moisturising-lotion)
- [The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)](https://thecastindex.com/beauty/the-ordinary-hyaluronic-acid-2-b5-ceramides)

## Questions

### What do ceramides do?

They are part of the skin’s natural barrier. Skincare with ceramides helps restore that barrier so skin holds water better.

### Can I use ceramides with retinol?

Yes. A ceramide moisturiser is a common way to reduce the dryness retinoids can cause.

## Sources

- [Coderch et al., “Ceramides and skin function”, American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12553851/)
- [DermNet — Emollients and moisturisers](https://dermnetnz.org/topics/emollients-and-moisturisers)

General information, not medical advice.