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CERAMIDE 5.

Essential / HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING

Ceramide 5, now officially designated as Ceramide AS, is a vital N-acylated sphingolipid inherent to the skin's stratum corneum. It is crucial for maintaining the skin's protective barrier, preventing excessive moisture loss, and shielding against external aggressors.

Skin-identical ingredient Skin barrier support Moisturizing agent Skin conditioning agent Anti-aging support

Science

As a fundamental skin-identical lipid, Ceramide 5 integrates directly into the stratum corneum, establishing a robust permeability barrier that significantly reduces transepidermal water loss. It actively enhances the adhesion between keratinocytes and forms a network capable of associating with water molecules, thereby improving skin hydration and minimizing desquamation. Furthermore, this ceramide participates in cellular processes such as recognition, growth, proliferation, and differentiation, contributing to the skin's overall health and potentially delaying signs of aging.


Research

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The INCI name 'Ceramide 5' was designated with a retired status in 2014, having been replaced by 'Ceramide AS'. Data from 2014 indicated that Ceramide 5 was not actively in use in cosmetics, suggesting it is not commonly utilized in current formulations, thus limiting the risk of dusting.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4.5 – 6.5
0 7 14

Stability

Ceramide 5 is a lipophilic ingredient, requiring dispersion in oil or lipid phases of an emulsion. Optimal stability is achieved within a pH range of 4.5 to 6.5. Due to its general heat sensitivity, it should ideally be incorporated into formulations at temperatures of 40°C or lower to prevent potential degradation, although some specialized complexes may tolerate up to 80°C.

Conflicts

  • Cationic emulsions (may interfere with ceramide complex structures)
  • Highly acidic environments (pH below 4.5)
  • Highly alkaline environments (pH above 6.5)
  • Mismatched solubility leading to formulation instability and phase separation

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has consistently concluded that ceramides, including the retired 'Ceramide 5', are safe for cosmetic use under current practices and concentrations. This assessment assumes the ceramides are not derived from bovine central nervous system tissues. The official INCI designation for this ceramide was updated to 'Ceramide AS' in 2014.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Essential

Ceramide 5, functionally known as Ceramide AS, is an essential skin-identical lipid that is fundamental for maintaining a healthy skin barrier, optimal hydration, and overall skin vitality.


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