Ceramide NP
The most abundant ceramide class in the stratum corneum; topical replacement improves barrier in controlled trials.
Ceramides are the dominant lipid class in the stratum corneum's "mortar", and Ceramide NP (formerly Ceramide 3) is among the most abundant. Skin with eczema, or simply over-cleansed skin, tends to run low.
The evidence
Creams formulated with physiological ratios of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids significantly increase hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss in controlled studies[1]; reviews support their role in atopic and barrier-compromised skin[2].
What the label doesn't tell you
The 3:1:1 ratio with cholesterol and free fatty acids matters more than the number of ceramide types listed. niacinamide boosts the skin's own ceramide production and is a natural partner; so is retinol when retinisation dries things out.
Evidence by claim
Safety & limits
Sources · 2
- [1]Spada F, Barnes TM, Greive KA. Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing systems. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (2018)doi:10.2147/CCID.S177697
- [2]Meckfessel MH, Brandt S. The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2014)doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2014.01.891