What it is
Ceramide AS is one of the defined ceramide species used in cosmetics, named under the ceramide nomenclature based on its sphingoid base and fatty acid structure. Ceramides are key lipids found naturally in the skin's outer layer, where they help maintain a smooth, conditioned, and resilient surface. In sunscreens and moisturizers, Ceramide AS is added to support the skin's lipid barrier and improve the feel and condition of the skin.
Safety & warnings
Ceramides such as Ceramide AS are generally very well tolerated, as they mirror lipids that occur naturally in the skin barrier, and they are not associated with fragrance allergens. They are typically considered non-comedogenic at usage levels in finished products.
Origin & sourcing
Usually synthetic or produced through biotechnological synthesis to match the structure of ceramides found naturally in skin.
Questions everyone asks
What is Ceramide AS?
It is a specific type of ceramide, a class of skin-identical lipids, used to help condition skin and support its natural barrier.
Why are ceramides added to sunscreen?
They reinforce the skin's lipid barrier and improve skin feel, complementing the UV filters that provide the actual sun protection.