Similar to collagen, ceramides are an important factor in terms of ageing, which is why they're often found in skincare products. But now experts are saying we should be ingesting them as well applying them topically.

Here, skin expert and facialist Abigail James gives us the lowdown on ceramides and how they can help you to look more youthful...


What are ceramides?

"Ceramides are naturally present in the skin's uppermost layers - essentially, they make up part of the 'cement' that binds together protective cells in the outermost skin layer.

"An easy analogy would be that ceramides are part of the mortar between bricks, if bricks were your skin cells."


Why is the moisture barrier so beneficial?

"The skin moisture barrier is a central feature in maintaining hydrated-looking skin and plays an important role in protecting against the appearance of ageing skin.

"Ageing, sun damage, pollution and other lifestyle stressors can cause skin moisture levels to drop, resulting in skin that can begin to appear less hydrated, supple and smooth."


What do ceramides do?

"As the years go by, skin undergoes a number of changes; epidermal cells don't slough off as easily; skin doesn't retain as much moisture due to a reduction in ceramides; the collagen and elastin in the middle layer break down.

"As a result, the skin is less firm and less elastic."


Where can you get ceramides?

"While you can't fully stop the reduction of your natural levels of ceramides, you can help top your ceramide levels up.

"Until now, only topical ceramide creams have been available - but Seven Seas Perfect7 Renewal Advanced is a UK first of its kind beauty supplement, containing Ceramosides - a natural source of ceramides - that can be taken orally rather than topically.

"Creams are applied to a section of your skin, whereas orally taking a supplement means it is carried into your body."