Description
What is Minimalist® Ceramides 0.3% + Bisabolol?
The skin barrier is located in the outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum (SC). SC consists of corneocytes embedded in a lipid-enriched extracellular matrix (similar to the brick & mortar structure). This product has a pure active ceramide concentration of 0.3%. Ceramide Complex is a term used by brands to either hide the ceramide concentration or inflate the concentration percent. Ceramide Complexes are blends of ceramides provided by raw material suppliers along with other ingredients (like emulsifiers, preservatives, etc) and contain around 2.5% ceramide or lesser. Using 1% concentration of this complex delivers ceramides in the range of 0.025%. We have formulated this product to deliver a high concentration of pure ceramide (0.3%) to deliver maximum benefits to the skin.
The corneocytes are composed of mainly keratin fibrils which are protected externally by a cornified cell envelope and provide structural stability and elasticity to the skin. The intercellular lipids, on the other hand, are composed of Ceramides, Cholesterol, and Free Fatty Acids, which helps retain moisture (and block transepidermal water loss / TEWL) apart from several other critical functions.
The skin barrier bears the responsibility of being the first line of defense against moisture loss, irritants, and bacteria. The skin’s barrier must not only defend from mechanical insults and pathogenic microbes, but also from other aggressors like UV-irradiation and free radicals generated from the ozone and other environmental pollutants. Additionally, the barrier must also desquamate invisibly and trap appropriate amounts of water (hydration).
UV overexposure, medication, age, allergens, pollutants, and over-washing, are some of the factors that can damage the integrity of the skin’s barrier. Unless these factors are adequately countered by SC self-repair mechanisms and/or external moisturization, the SC becomes overstressed, with continued increased TEWL leading to incomplete desquamation, loss of skin elasticity, and increased skin rigidity.
We followed a 3 pronged approach while formulating this product:
- Support and accelerate repair of the skin barrier: This is a continuous process and shows gradual improvement in skin health. We have combined Ceramides, Cholesterol & Fatty Acids in a widely proven ratio of 3:1:1, which is similar to that found in healthy skin. Multiple studies have proven that this specific ratio exerts optimal benefits & supports accelerated optimal skin barrier repair. This product uses a high concentration of 0.3% pure ceramides, delivered through 5 essential ceramides, namely, Ceramide NP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NS, Ceramide AS, and Ceramide AP.
- Soothe and hydrate skin from the first application: Another aspect of this product is to offer immediate relief from symptoms of the damaged barrier – excess skin dryness, irritation, and itchiness. Bisabolol, one of the active components of Chamomile, along with Ursolic Acid and Asiaticoside (the active component of Centella), heals & soothes skin. Betaine, Saccharide Isomerate & Aquaporin (type of proteins in the skin that is responsible for transporting water across cell membranes) boosting ingredients that provide intense, multi-level hydration.
- Make it suitable for dry/normal skin: Formulate an ultra-moisturizing and nourishing cream that is suitable for dry skin and moisturizes from within. We have used multiple emollients, occlusives (Petrolatum), and hydrators to keep skin healthy and well moisturized.
How to use Minimalist® Ceramides 0.3% + Bisabolol
Use AM or PM as a moisturizer. Use after cleansing, toning, and applying all serums.
Take a sufficient quantity of product and massage it into face until it is fully absorbed.