Market landscape: the rise of ceramides in skin care

Market insights: the growing demand for ceramides

The global ceramide market was valued at USD 360.4 million in 2023, with the food application segment expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2030 ^[1]. The Asia Pacific region dominated the global ceramide market, accounting for over 35.0% of the revenue share in 2023 ^[2]. This expansion is primarily driven by increasing consumer awareness of skin health and the crucial role of ceramides in maintaining the skin barrier

Several key factors are fuelling this market evolution ^[1]:

• Rising consumer awareness: a growing scientific understanding of skin barrier function among consumers has led to increased demand for ceramide-based products, particularly to target barrier repair, hydration, and managing conditions like eczema. This trend is exemplified by specific markets like Thailand, where recent research reveals strong consumer recognition of ceramides. In a 2021 Mintel survey, ceramides ranked among the top three functional beauty ingredients with 41% consumer awareness, alongside peptides and retinol ^[2].
• Aging population dynamics: the rising global geriatric population and a corresponding focus on anti-aging skincare solutions continue to drive demand for functional ingredients like ceramides that address age-related skin concerns.
• Supplement innovation: the dietary supplements segment represents a significant growth opportunity, with oral ceramides gaining increasing recognition for their skin health benefits. Clinical studies demonstrate that supplementation with plant-derived ceramides effectively supports skin barrier function from within. 
• Preference for natural sources: the natural ceramides segment, primarily derived from plant sources, leads the market and is expected to witness the fastest growth, reflecting the broader industry movement toward sustainable and plant-based ingredients.

The increasing focus on research and development continues to produce significant advancements in ceramide extraction methods and formulation technologies, enabling the creation of more effective and stable products that meet evolving consumer needs.

Trend spotlight: ceramide supplements for face care

A pivotal trend is the prominence of ceramide supplements, moving them beyond a niche ingredient to a cornerstone of the "beauty from within" movement. This is driven by significant scientific validation. Formulation strategies now combine ceramides with other active ingredients like collagen or antioxidants (e.g., the "Advanced Ceramides" formulation with Grape Seed Extract and Vitamin C), offering a comprehensive anti-aging and wellness solution. This focus on ingestible solutions is setting the stage for more advanced, holistic regimens that combine internal and external care for comprehensive results.

The science of ceramides and skin barrier function

Skin structure and wellness

The stratum corneum—the skin's outermost layer—acts as the crucial first line of defence. Skin wellness is defined by this barrier's ability to function effectively, demonstrating optimal hydration, balanced pH, and strong resistance to aggressors. A healthy barrier maintains appropriate moisture retention, prevents excessive water loss, and reflects health through smooth texture and elasticity.

The critical role of ceramides

Ceramides are essential lipids naturally produced by keratinocytes in the epidermis (via the de novo pathway ^[4]). They constitute approximately 50% of the stratum corneum lipids, forming an organised matrix with other fats (cholesterol and fatty acids).

Their essential functions include:

• Barrier formation: creating an impermeable barrier to maintain the skin's defence.
• Hydration regulation: locking moisture within the skin and preventing transepidermal water loss.
• Protection: shielding against environmental stressors.
• Cellular communication: acting as signalling molecules to support skin barrier homeostasis.

Aging and barrier weakening

As we age, the skin’s natural ceramide levels gradually decrease, starting in the 30s and accelerating with age. This decline, worsened by factors like UV exposure, pollution, and hormonal changes, compromises the barrier. This depletion results in increased skin sensitivity, moisture loss, and visible signs of aging.

The future of skin health: path to the best formulations

The "in & out" strategy: the benefits of oral ceramides supplements

The "in & out" beauty concept represents an evidence-based strategy combining topical applications with oral supplementation. Clinical studies have demonstrated that oral intake of ceramide-containing supplements can improve stratum corneum hydration without adverse effects, while topical products help restore the skin's natural barrier function ^[3].

The scientific rationale for this dual approach lies in its complementary mechanisms:

• Topical application (external support): ceramides integrate directly into the stratum corneum to help restore the skin's lipid barrier immediately, providing targeted reinforcement and supporting optimal moisture retention at the surface level.
• Oral supplementation (internal support): plant-derived ceramides are absorbed through the digestive system, distributed via the bloodstream, and provide sustained support for skin health from within.

Formulation excellence: creating advanced nutricosmetic skin care

The development of effective ceramide formulations requires integrating skin biology expertise with formulation science to optimise stability, efficacy, and bioavailability. Current research suggests two key principles guiding modern, high-performance formulations:

• Considerations in sourcing and bioavailability: the foundation relies on careful selection of scientifically-validated, bioavailable raw materials. This helps ensure ceramides can be effectively absorbed and utilised by the body to support natural skin ceramide production.
• Potential for synergistic integration: formulation enhancement emerges through combining ceramides with complementary actives. Studies suggest promising combinations:
  • Integration of antioxidants (like Vitamin C and E) to protect ceramide lipids from oxidative stress.
  • Combination with dermal-support ingredients (like collagen peptides) for broader support for both barrier function and structural integrity.

Mastering the science of ceramides is key to developing next-generation skincare solutions. Ingredients like CERAMOSIDES™, a natural, wheat-derived ceramide complex, exemplify the potential of scientifically-backed oral supplements to restore the skin barrier from within. This holistic approach not only revitalises skin health but also shows promise for related applications, such as improving hair vitality.

Sources

1. Grand View Research. (2024). Ceramide Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Natural, Synthetic), By Application (Cosmetics, Pharmaceuticals), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030.
2. Mintel. (2021). Lack of ingredient awareness and new-age skin concerns present growth opportunities for beauty brands in Thailand.
3. PubMed. Yoshihiro Tsuchiya & Al. (2020). Safety and Efficacy of Oral Intake of Ceramide-Containing Acetic Acid Bacteria for Improving the Stratum Corneum Hydration: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study over 12 Weeks
4. PubMed. Yukiko Mizutani & Al. (2009). Ceramide biosynthesis in keratinocyte and its role in skin function.