Dry (skin) Jan is well and truly done, but the central heating is not going off yet and dry, tight feeling skin is still a theme for complexions all over the northern hemisphere. If you want the 411 on dry skin (what? Why? how?) check out our previous blog – Dry Skin: Everything You Need to Know. For now, come on a deep dive into the best ingredients for dry skin and they might just surprise you – ceramides and pre-biotics . . .
What Are Ceramides?
Ceramides are naturally found within the skin barrier, they’re lipid molecules and account for up to 50% of the skin’s outermost layer. We can recreate ceramides in a lab or use plant-derived versions in skincare formulas and they’re known as a bio-available ingredient as the body recognizes and uses them to enhance the barrier immediately – hurray! Not so good is the news that our natural ceramide levels decrease with age (30% loss by age 30, 60% by age 40). Harsh cleansers, over-exfoliation, and some environmental stressors can also strip them away. We need them to protect against environmental damage, maintain the skin barrier and prevent the moisture loss that leads to dry skin.
What Are Prebiotics?
The skin's microbiome has been in the spotlight regularly over the last few years, so you're probably aware that the microbiome refers to the trillions of microbes that live on your skin. The relationship between "good" bacteria and "bad" bacteria is pretty straightforward too - when the balance is tipped towards "bad" bacteria we might need antibiotics, and boosting "good” bacteria by taking probiotics is a common notion, but the power of PREbiotics is lesser known. These nutrient-rich compounds (non-living) actively feed and support the skin’s beneficial microbiome or good bacteria. They provide nourishment to probiotics (these are the live bacteria) to help maintain a healthy and balanced skin microbiome. When the beneficial microbes dominate, harmful bacteria are suppressed, meaning skin stays healthy and strong.
Benefits of Combining Ceramides and Prebiotics in Skincare for Dry Skin
It’s a winning strategy, but why?
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Enhanced Skin Barrier Support:
• Ceramides restore and reinforce the skin’s natural lipid barrier.
• Prebiotics nourish beneficial bacteria, supporting a healthy microbiome that protects the barrier.
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Improved Hydration:
• Ceramides lock in moisture by reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
• Prebiotics promote a balanced microbiome, which helps retain hydration and prevent dryness.
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Soothing Irritation:
• Ceramides calm dry, irritated skin by replenishing lost lipids.
• Prebiotics reduce inflammation by fostering good bacteria that suppress harmful microbes. -
Long-Term Barrier Strength:
• Ceramides provide immediate barrier repair, preventing water loss and environmental damage.
• Prebiotics support long-term skin resilience by maintaining a balanced, healthy microbiome. -
Reduced Sensitivity:
• Ceramides help to create a protective shield, minimizing exposure to irritants.
• Prebiotics strengthen the skin’s defence against external aggressors and reduce reactivity. -
Boosted Skin Health:
• Ceramides replenish structural lipids needed for optimal skin function.
• Prebiotics promote microbiome balance, enhancing overall skin vitality and smoothness.
The Ultimate Ceramides and Prebiotics Skincare Routine
Sounds good, doesn’t it? Rehab dry skin quickly and easily with our ceramide and prebiotic-rich routine. Don’t forget your skin pro will be able to tailor all your skin products for your exact needs, so booking a skin review is always a good idea.
Cleanse with SensiCalm
Rich in the all-important ceramides, our gentle cream cleanser removes dirt and debris while nourishing and soothing stressed-out skin.
Target with Eye Rescue Pads
These incredibly soothing gel eye pads banish puffiness while refreshing and hydrating the eye area with a formula featuring ceramides.
Moisturise with HydraRich
The ultimate moisturiser for ultra dry skin, our quickly absorbed formula contains both ceramides and prebiotics for optimal barrier support.
Ceramides and prebiotics are a great add to any routine and they’re gentle enough not to cause any issues, but for bespoke skin support, there’s only one place to turn: our skin pros, book your skin review today.