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Ingredient · INCI reference

Ceramide 2

Ceramide 2, now standardized as Ceramide NS, is a skin-identical lipid used as a skin-conditioning and barrier-supporting ingredient in moisturizers and sunscreens.

What it is

Ceramide 2 is one of the ceramide lipids that mirror those naturally present in the skin's outermost layer, where ceramides are a major component of the intercellular lipid matrix. In cosmetics it is added to condition the skin and reinforce a smooth, comfortable surface feel, often alongside other ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids. It is used at low levels as a supportive lipid in many leave-on formulas.

Safety & warnings

Ceramides are skin-identical lipids and are very well tolerated, with a low expected risk of irritation or sensitization.

Origin & sourcing

Typically produced synthetically or by biofermentation to yield a skin-identical lipid rather than relying on animal sources.

Questions everyone asks

What is Ceramide 2?

It is a skin-identical lipid, now named Ceramide NS, used to condition skin and support a smooth, comfortable surface feel.

Where do cosmetic ceramides come from?

They are generally made synthetically or by fermentation to produce a lipid identical to those found naturally in skin.

Sources & references

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