Glycolic Acid + Ceramides
Safe to Combine
These ingredients are generally well-tolerated together with no special precautions needed.
Ceramides help repair and strengthen the skin barrier, making them a perfect complement to glycolic acid exfoliation.
What the Research Says
Ceramides are lipid molecules that make up approximately 50% of the skin barrier (stratum corneum). They form the "mortar" between skin cells, preventing water loss and protecting against environmental irritants. When glycolic acid exfoliates, it temporarily disrupts this barrier by dissolving the bonds between dead cells - ceramides help rebuild and reinforce the barrier afterward.
Using ceramide-containing products alongside glycolic acid is one of the best strategies for maintaining a healthy skin barrier during chemical exfoliation. This is especially important for people with conditions like eczema, rosacea, or naturally sensitive skin who may experience more barrier disruption from acids.
Research consistently shows that ceramide-containing moisturizers reduce the irritation associated with active ingredients like AHAs and retinoids, improving tolerability and allowing users to maintain their exfoliation routine without excessive dryness or irritation.
Timing & How to Use
Apply glycolic acid first, allow it to absorb for a few minutes, then follow with a ceramide-containing moisturizer. This order works for both AM and PM routines. Ceramides can also be used in the morning when glycolic acid is used only at night.
Practical Tips
- 1Look for products listing ceramide NP, ceramide AP, and ceramide EOP - these are the three essential ceramides
- 2Ceramide moisturizers are particularly important during the first few weeks of starting glycolic acid
- 3A ceramide-based moisturizer is one of the best ways to reduce flaking and dryness from exfoliation
- 4Products combining ceramides with cholesterol and fatty acids mimic the skin's natural barrier most effectively
References
- Coderch L, et al. Ceramides and skin function. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2003;4(2):107-29.
- Meckfessel MH, Brandt S. The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71(1):177-84.
- Del Rosso JQ, Levin J. The clinical relevance of maintaining the functional integrity of the stratum corneum in both healthy and disease-affected skin. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2011;4(9):22-42.
