Why ceramides come in a 3:1:1 ratio

Reading time: 4 minutes

The outer layer of skin is often described as bricks and mortar. The bricks are skin cells. The mortar is a mix of lipids that keeps water in and irritants out. When that mortar thins, skin feels tight, flakes and stings.

What the mortar is made of

Put those three back in similar proportions and the skin can rebuild its barrier more easily than with ceramides alone.

The 3:1:1 ratio

Barrier Cream uses three ceramides with cholesterol and linoleic acid, balanced in a 3:1:1 ratio.

• Ceramide NP, AP and EOP, three of the ceramide types found in skin
• Cholesterol, to keep the lipid layer flexible
• Linoleic acid, a fatty acid that completes the mix

It is the same logic behind many barrier creams used after procedures, adapted for daily use.

Why the ratio matters: a cream with ceramides alone gives skin one part of the mortar. A balanced mix gives it all three.

Who needs it

• Dry or flaky skin, especially in winter
• Skin that stings when you apply products
• Anyone using retinal or acids
• Skin that has been over-exfoliated

How to use ceramides

1. Morning: apply on slightly damp skin as the last step before sunscreen.
2. Night: apply as the last step of your routine.
3. Body: Ceramide Body Lotion follows the same idea at a lighter texture.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Barrier Cream with retinal?

Yes, and it is a good pairing. Apply it straight after retinal, or before it if your skin is sensitive.

Why apply on damp skin?

A cream applied on slightly damp skin helps hold that water in, so skin feels softer for longer.

Is it suitable for oily skin?

Oily skin can still have a weak barrier. If your skin is oily but tight or stinging, a thin layer at night is a good place to start.