Ceramides are a moisturizing wonder for dry skin during the winter months

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As a barrier to the skin – 50% of the top layer in fact – these depleted levels can make the skin more prone to dehydration, dryness and increased sensitivity. This means that the signs of aging, including the loss of firmness and shine, are more pronounced.

Ceramides are our first line of defense against environmental damage and the inevitable circle of life.

"Reducing skin barrier oils, whether by decreasing production or increasing shrinkage, as if we were staying too long in a hot shower, harms the integrity of the skin," says dermatologist Adrian Lim . "The skin barrier is vulnerable in winter and in low humidity conditions such as air conditioning and air travel.When the skin is dry and air dry, hydration is indicated, regardless of the type of skin. ;age."

The skin care brand Cult US CeraVe has recently been launched in Australia. I have been using for some months a part of the range in which the main ingredient of the product is ceramides. My favorite is the daily moisturizing lotion CeraVe ($ 23) – the cream version being a bit too heavy for my combination skin. The lotion has a great consistency and comes in a pump of a staggering liter for those who just can not get enough of the moisturizer.

These products are formulated with three specific ceramides (ceramides 1, 3 and 6-II), hyaluronic acid, glycerin, cholesterol and niacinamide (vitamin B3). Which brings me to the next point: Ceramides are excellent but, as in the case of a diet, a balanced diet is the best.

Of course, nourish the skin with ceramides, but do not forget the other nourishing ingredients on offer and the role that other products can play to ensure optimal skin health.

"It is safe to use these products morning and evening all year round," says Dr. Eleni Yiasemides, consultant dermatologist for CeraVe. "Many will find that the moisturizing benefit often lasts 24 hours, so once a day may be enough.If you use it only once a day, I suggest that the ideal time be at night.

"It's at that time that the temperature is often lower, so you do not sweat, and the products can penetrate and absorb into the skin overnight and not spoil your sheets." Moisturizers are also better absorbed after the application or bath. "

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Also consider using a physical or chemical scrub two to three times a week. The removal of dead skin cells means that ceramides can be better absorbed through the skin.

Stephanie Darling, Beauty Director of Sunday Life, is currently on leave.

This article appears in Sunday life magazine in the Sun-Herald and the Sunday Age on sale July 7th.