Skin Barrier Science

A healthy stratum corneum is crucial for optimal skin barrier function. Loss of essential ceramides and reorganisation of intercellular lipids can disrupt the protective skin barrier.¹A growing body of evidence suggests that many dermatologic diseases, including atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, psoriasis, and aged, dry skin are associated with altered composition and synthesis of ceramides.²

Furthermore, the literature suggests racial/ethnic variations in skin barrier properties, including ceramide content, stratum corneum structure, and filaggrin mutations.³ Read more about racial/ethnic variations in the skin barrier.

Topical replenishment of ceramides can play a vital role in improving and normalising skin barrier function.¹ Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe is formulated with skin-identical ceramides 1, 3, & 6-II and MVE Technology to restore the skin barrier and provide sustained hydration.

In a randomised, investigator-blind study, 49 women (ages 30-65 years) with dry to very dry skin applied CeraVe Moisturising Cream twice daily on one lower leg for 4 weeks. Skin samples were collected by a dermatologist at baseline and week 4 for lipid analysis.⁴

CeraVe contains a mixture of 3 skin-identical ceramides—ceramide 1, ceramide 3, and ceramide 6-II—plus cholesterol, fatty acids, and phytosphingosine. Together these ingredients have a synergistic effect in repairing the skin barrier.

Slow-release Multivesicular Emulsion (MVE) Technology delivers concentric layers of oil-in-water emulsions. These layers slowly unfold upon application, continually releasing moisturising ingredients for the skin to absorb as needed.

REFERENCES: 1. Sahle FF, Gebre-Mariam T, Dobner B, Wohlrab J, Neubert RH. Skin diseases associated with the depletion of stratum corneum lipids and stratum corneum lipid substitution therapy. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2015;28(1):42-55. 2. Coderch L, López O, de la Maza A, Parra JL. Ceramides and skin function. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2003;4(2):107-129. doi:10.2165/00128071-200304020-00004 3. Alexis AF, Woolery-Lloyd H, Williams K, et al. Racial/ethnic variations in skin barrier: Implications for skin care recommendations in skin of color. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(9):932-938. doi:10.36849/jdd.6312 4. Draelos ZD, Baalbaki NH, Raab S, Colón G. The effect of a ceramide-containing product on stratum corneum lipid levels in dry legs. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(4):372-376. doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.4796