Healthy skin is a sign of youthful vitality, but the older we get, the more conscious we have to be about nourishing our bodies and our skin to maintain that healthy glow. The foods you eat and other lifestyle factors play a role, but the ingredients in your skincare products are important as well. To rebuild and restore your skin’s protective barrier to lock in moisture and block environmental damage, look for moisturizers that contain ceramides and essential fatty acids. 

What are ceramides and essential fatty acids? 

Ceramides are a type of fatty acid (lipid) naturally derived from our skin. Ceramides make up over 50% of the outer layer of our skin. They are often described as the mortar between bricks, aiding in the formation of a protective layer against environmental damage. As with collagen and elastin, our supply of ceramides diminishes as we age. Depending on the amount of sun exposure and sun damage we’ve accumulated, we may begin to lose ceramides in our 30s or 40s. The depletion of ceramides weakens the protective barrier, making our skin vulnerable to further damage and causing a dull, dry, aged appearance. 

Essential fatty acids are beneficial fats that are vital to our health but that our bodies don’t produce naturally. Omega-6 and Omega-3 are the two primary essential fatty acids that are necessary for the formation of healthy cell membranes, the development and functioning of the brain and nervous system, as well as our skin and hair health.  Because our bodies don’t produce these fats naturally, we have to get them through the foods we eat, including fatty fish, leafy vegetables, and certain oils and nuts.

When ceramides and essential fatty acids are used in skincare products, they help nourish and replenish skin, providing it with numerous health benefits. 

Benefits of ceramides and essential fatty acids in skincare products

Your diet and lifestyle habits affect your ceramide and fatty acid levels from the inside. Your skincare products can help replenish from the outside.  Creams and moisturizers containing ceramides and fatty acids are usually the best option as part of a regular skincare routine. They’re a great last step at night or just before your sunscreen during the day. Ceramides and essential fatty acids in your skincare will:

• Provide nourishment to keep your skin healthy and strong

• Rebuild and reinforce your skin barrier

• Protect your skin from environmental damage

• Restore moisture levels

• Lock in hydration

• Eliminate signs of skin-dehydration

• Provide antioxidant protection

• Smooth skin’s surface

• Soften skin for a healthy, younger-looking appearance

At Siti Med Spa, we’re committed to helping you achieve your healthiest, most beautiful skin. In addition to the highest quality medical cosmetic services we offer, we’ve also partnered with SkinMedica to provide you with the very best skincare products. If you think your skin could benefit from ceramides and fatty acids, here are a couple of our favorite products: 

• TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream™

This is a great post-procedure cream, for treating dry skin, or as a part of your daily skincare regimen.  It’s highly effective in rehydrating and restoring the skin’s barrier.

• Dermal Repair Cream 

This ultra rich facial cream is appropriate for normal to dry skin types. It intensely hydrates and helps replenish moisture. It's also perfect for use during periods of dry weather or as a night time moisturizer.

If you’re not exactly sure what your skin needs, we can help.  Give us a call at (619) 717-8484 to schedule a consultation today.