Ceramides for skin: creams, capsules and the differences
Ceramides are a family of lipids found in the skin’s outer layer. They also appear on the labels of creams and food supplements. Those products are not interchangeable: putting a formulation on the skin and swallowing a particular ingredient are different uses, with different evidence.
What do ceramides do in the skin?
They form part of the lipid mixture between cells in the stratum corneum. This arrangement helps limit water loss. “Ceramide” is a family name, not one ingredient that always behaves identically. A list of ceramide names on a cream does not, by itself, establish which finished product will suit your skin.
What is the difference between a cream and a capsule?
A cream is applied directly to the skin; its complete formulation determines how it moisturises and feels. A swallowed ingredient goes through digestion and metabolism. Evidence for a topical formula cannot simply be used to promise the same result from a capsule, or vice versa.
What does oral wheat-extract research tell us?
Trials have examined particular wheat-derived preparations. For example, a 2011 randomised study used 350 mg of wheat extract oil daily for three months in 51 women with dry to very dry skin. This is not the 70 mg CERAMOSIDES® preparation in LipidCell. Ingredient identity, dose, measured outcome and study population all matter when comparing research; this paper is not a clinical trial of the finished LipidCell formula.
Does skin research also prove hair or nail growth?
No. A skin measurement does not establish faster hair growth, less shedding or stronger nails. Those outcomes require their own evidence. If hair loss is the main concern, identifying its cause is more useful than choosing a capsule because ceramides also occur in biological tissues.
LipidCell: the actual two-capsule serving
LipidCell combines squalene, a wheat-derived CERAMOSIDES® preparation and vitamins A and E. It contains squalene, not the hydrogenated ingredient squalane often found in cosmetics. One pack has 60 capsules: two daily provide 30 daily servings.
| Ingredient | Amount per daily serving |
|---|---|
| Squalene | 1000 mg |
| CERAMOSIDES® wheat-germ-oil preparation | 70 mg, including 10.5 mg ceramides and 10.5 mg DGDG |
| Vitamin A | 800 µg — 100% NRV |
| Vitamin E | 24 mg — 200% NRV |
Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal skin
Vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress
These statements concern vitamins A and E and their normal functions. They do not mean that the capsules repair a damaged barrier, treat a skin condition or guarantee a change after a set number of weeks.
See the full LipidCell formula and label
Suitability and precautions
The product contains fish-derived ingredients, fish-gelatin capsules and a wheat-derived ingredient; it is not vegetarian or vegan. Do not assume it is gluten-free. Not suitable for children, pregnancy, breastfeeding or allergy to an ingredient. Follow the label and do not exceed two capsules daily. Check overlap with other vitamin A and E products. Ask a doctor or pharmacist about regular medicines or medical conditions. Keep out of reach of young children. A food supplement does not replace a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
Does 70 mg CERAMOSIDES® mean 70 mg ceramides?
No. It is the amount of the preparation. The two-capsule daily serving contains 10.5 mg ceramides and 10.5 mg DGDG within that 70 mg.
Are all oral ceramide products vegan?
No. Check the whole product. LipidCell uses wheat-derived CERAMOSIDES®, but also fish-derived squalene and fish-gelatin capsules.
Related guide
Hydrolipid barrier: what it is and how to care for it