Ceramides
Ceramides are the ‘mortar’ that holds your skin barrier together. Less glamorous than some actives — but for comfortable, resilient skin, they're quietly essential.
What they are
Ceramides are naturally occurring lipids (fats) that make up a large part of the skin's outer barrier. If skin cells are the bricks, ceramides are the mortar between them — sealing in moisture and keeping irritants out.
Levels naturally decline with age and can be depleted by over-cleansing, harsh actives or cold, dry weather.
What they're designed to do
Replenishing ceramides is designed to support and repair the skin barrier — which shows up as skin that feels less tight and dry, looks calmer, and holds hydration better. A healthy barrier also tolerates other actives more comfortably.
They're foundational rather than flashy: get the barrier right, and everything else works better.
How to use them
Ceramides are usually found in moisturisers and barrier creams, used morning and night. They're especially worth prioritising if your skin feels tight, reactive, or has been over-exfoliated.
If your barrier feels compromised, simplifying your routine around ceramides — with professional guidance — is often the fastest way back to comfort.
This page is general skincare education, not medical advice. What's right for your skin is assessed individually — patch-test new products and seek professional guidance.
Common questions
What do ceramides do for skin?
They're part of the skin's barrier — the ‘mortar’ that seals in moisture and keeps irritants out. Replenishing them supports skin that feels comfortable, calm and well-hydrated.
Who should use ceramides?
Almost anyone, but especially skin that feels tight, dry, reactive or over-exfoliated. They help restore a barrier that's been compromised.
Can ceramides be used with actives like retinol?
Yes — in fact a ceramide moisturiser helps skin tolerate stronger actives like retinol more comfortably by supporting the barrier.
The right formula for your skin
We stock Dr Spiller skincare and choose formulations — by name — to suit your skin and extend your results at home.
More ingredients
Skincare chosen for your skin.
In a complimentary consultation and skin analysis we'll map a simple, effective routine — and what, if anything, is worth doing in clinic.