Ingredient guide · C

Ceramides

Ceramides NP, AP and EOP are three key types of ceramides used in modern skincare to help strengthen and repair the skin’s natural barrier. Often described as the ‘mortar’ that holds skin cells together, they are especially popular in moisturisers, serums and creams for dry, sensitive or compromised skin. In the UK they are valued for restoring softness and reducing moisture loss without irritation.

Ceramides NP, AP and EOP — Ceramides NP, AP and EOP used in UK cosmetics are typically produced by bio-fermentatio… | UK Lips ingredient guide

How it works in skincare

In cosmetics and skincare formulations, Ceramides NP, AP and EOP are bio-identical lipids that integrate into the intercellular matrix of the stratum corneum. They work by replenishing the skin’s own naturally occurring ceramides, helping to rebuild the protective lipid barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss and improve overall skin resilience. These ceramides are frequently combined with cholesterol and fatty acids to mimic the skin’s natural lipid ratio, delivering a smoother, more supple feel and enhancing the performance of other active ingredients.

Key benefits

  • Strengthens the skin’s natural moisture barrier
  • Helps reduce moisture loss from the skin
  • Improves skin softness and smoothness
  • Supports skin resilience against environmental stressors
  • Calms the appearance of dry or tight skin
  • Enhances the effectiveness of accompanying moisturising ingredients

Best for

dry skin, sensitive skin, mature skin, compromised skin barrier, eczema-prone skin

Where it comes from

Ceramides NP, AP and EOP used in UK cosmetics are typically produced by bio-fermentation of plant-derived lipids, most commonly from wheat, rice or corn. They are nature-identical copies of the ceramides found in human skin.

Products with Ceramides

Not every product on UK Lips lists a full ingredient breakdown — so there may be many more formulas that contain Ceramides than we can show here. These are the comparisons where we’ve confirmed it in the listed ingredients.

All ingredients