Ceramides

Ceramides (CAS 100403-19-8, EC 309-560-3) are a family of lipid molecules composed of sphingosine and a fatty acid, naturally present in the skin's stratum corneum. Commercially available under abbreviations such as CER, Ceramide 2, and Ceramide 3, they are not assigned an E-code and carry no food additive classification.

In personal care formulations, ceramides restore the skin's lipid barrier by integrating into the intercellular lamellar structure, reducing transepidermal water loss and improving moisture retention. In pharmaceutical topical preparations, they are incorporated into emollient creams targeting compromised skin conditions, where they support barrier repair at the cellular level.

Ceramides are supplied as a crystalline solid and sourced in cosmetic and pharmaceutical grades, with compliance requirements typically governed by REACH registration and relevant pharmacopoeial standards where applicable. Procurement teams should confirm grade specification, purity documentation, and supplier REACH status prior to ordering.