FSS Ceramide 1

INCI: Ceramide EOP

Use Levels: 1.0% - 10.0%

Solubility: Insoluble in Water

Appearance: White Crystalline Powder

Ceramides are classified as lipid molecules and are typically composed of fatty acids and sphingosine. Present in high concentrations within cellular membranes, ceramides are components of sphingomyelin, one of the major lipids of the lipid bilayer. Credited with providing structural support to cells and improving cellular integrity, ceramides may be used in a wide variety of cosmetic and personal care applications.

Ceramides are thought to increase collagen production in fibroblasts when administered in small doses. When the amount of ceramide is slightly increased, the extracellular matrix becomes homeostatically synthesized, therefore increasing the amount of collagen. This increase in collagen production goes hand in hand with ceramides’ ability to increase cellular turnover. Ceramides are essentially the "glue” that holds our skin’s surface cells together. When the skin’s barrier is intact, the skin appears smooth, glowing and young. Ceramides help to support the skin in order to maintain natural collagen, elastin, and structural proteins for younger looking skin.

Ceramides are also present in the hair cuticle. The cuticle is the thin outermost layer of the hair that serves to protect the hair shaft and provide the hair with strength. Damaged hair often has ceramides that are missing, causing the hair to become dull, dry and increasing the chance of breakage. When used in hair care applications, ceramides can improve the hair cuticle and restore the hair’s natural moisture balance. Ceramides can also protect the hair from environmental conditions as well as mechanical damage to improve the hair’s shine, texture and combability. Ceramides are also believed to have an important role in the hair’s transition from ‘live cells’ within the follicle and beneath the skin’s surface, to the keratinized shafts which we see.

Ceramides are becoming a common ingredient in skin and hair care products to increase hydration and to strengthen the moisture barrier, therefore preventing transepidermal water loss. Products aimed for anti-aging and moisturization may benefit from the incorporation of ceramides. While ceramides improve epidermal integrity, they also are known to protect hair and skin from photo-damage, surfactants, stress, and low humidity conditions. FSS Ceramide 1 may be used to capitalize on the benefits associated with ceramides in a variety of cosmetic applications.

Storage: Protected from direct light and humidity at a temperature of 50°-77°F (10°-25°C) 

Shelf life: 12 months, properly stored, in sealed container. 

This product should be added to a formulation at the recommended usage rated.