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Ingredient · INCI reference

Ceramide NS

A skin-identical ceramide used as a barrier-supporting conditioning agent that mimics lipids naturally found in the skin's outer layer.

What it is

Ceramide NS is a member of the ceramide family of lipids that occur naturally in the stratum corneum, where ceramides help hold skin cells together and support the moisture barrier. Added to creams and sunscreens, it conditions the skin and complements its own lipid structure to support a smooth, comfortable feel. It is typically used at low levels alongside other barrier lipids.

Safety & warnings

Skin-identical ceramides are very well tolerated and are not associated with irritation or sensitization at cosmetic use levels. Ceramide NS is not a recognized fragrance allergen and is not considered comedogenic. It is commonly chosen for products aimed at sensitive or barrier-compromised skin.

Origin & sourcing

Usually produced synthetically (or by biofermentation) to match the structure of a ceramide found naturally in skin.

Questions everyone asks

What is ceramide NS?

It is a skin-identical ceramide lipid that mirrors one of the ceramides naturally present in the skin barrier and is used as a conditioning ingredient.

Why add it to sunscreen?

It conditions the skin and supports its lipid barrier, helping the product feel comfortable and complementing the skin's own structure.

Sources & references

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