Ingredients 101: Ceramides
Cold weather brings a special set of skincare challenges: tightness, flakiness, and that stubborn feeling of dehydration that no amount of moisturizer seems to fix. It’s during the winter months that your barrier isn’t functioning at its best. That’s why ceramides are a go-to ingredient for dermatologists.
“Ceramides are fatty acids in the skin that help to maintain the skin barrier and retain moisture and hydration. Extreme cold‑weather temperatures, exposure to hot water, and dry heat can all deplete the ceramides stored in your skin … which is why … it’s critical to introduce ceramide‑fortified products to lock in moisture and restore your skin's barrier function,” says Dr. Shereene Idriss, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist. These lipid molecules, which occur naturally in the skin, are essential for keeping the moisture barrier strong and resilient. When that barrier is compromised, hydration escapes more easily, leaving the skin vulnerable to irritation and dryness.
The ceramides used in skincare typically come from plant-derived lipids, lab-created bio-identical versions, or yeast fermentation. Regardless of source, their purpose is the same: to reinforce the skin’s natural structure. Because our natural ceramide levels decline due to age, environmental stress, and weather changes, using topical ceramide-rich products is one of the most reliable ways to restore barrier health. Many advanced formulas pair ceramides with cholesterol and fatty acids, mimicking the skin’s own lipid balance for optimal repair and hydration. Over time, this strengthens the moisture barrier, softens roughness, and helps the complexion appear smoother and more supple.
Ceramides are gentle and versatile, making them suitable for most skin types, including sensitive and reactive skin. They also pair well with other hydrating actives like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and peptides, and can help offset dryness from sensitizing actives such as retinoids and exfoliating acids. For best results, look for ceramides in moisturizers or serums and use them consistently to maintain a healthy barrier throughout the season.
Supporting your skin with ceramides isn’t just about combating winter dryness; it’s about building long-term resilience. With regular use, skin feels calmer, looks healthier, and retains moisture more effectively, no matter the weather.
• barrier strengtheners •
Torriden SOLID-IN Ceramide Cream, $34, available at Holt Renfrew and Well.ca.
This rich moisturizer provides long-lasting hydration and comfort, especially for dry and delicate skin types. Featuring a blend of five ceramides and D-Panthenol, it helps support the skin’s moisture barrier and maintain a smooth, supple look.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, $29.99, available at Shoppers Drug Mart and on Amazon.
This moisturizing cream hydrates and helps restore the skin’s protective barrier. Developed with dermatologists, this rich, non-greasy, fast-absorbing moisturizing cream features essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid for all-day hydration.
Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Recovery Serum, $61, available at Sephora.
This skin-barrier-strengthening serum is formulated with ceramides & antioxidant-rich avocado to help soothe and visibly reduce redness, dryness, and irritation caused by a weak skin barrier.
