What are Ceramides? Everything You NEED to Know

Let’s talk about the MVP of skin hydration: ceramides. If you’ve ever wondered, “Wait… what even are ceramides?”, you’re not alone. These vital lipids, naturally present in the skin, fortify the barrier and lock in moisture...Basically acting like the glue that holds everything together—keeping moisture in and bad stuff out. But here’s the catch: ceramide levels start to dip as we age (rude). That’s why Timebeam made them a staple in two of our skin longevity heroes: Moisture Melt Serum Balm and Reset Mode Healthy Pixie. These formulas help you stay hydrated, plump, and protected—now and in the long run.

If you’re not using ceramides yet, consider this your sign. Let’s break down what they are, why they’re such a big deal, and how to work them into your routine.

First, What Are Ceramides?

Ceramides are fat-like molecules that make up nearly 50% of your skin barrier. Think of them as the brick-and-mortar of your skin’s outer layer—they fill the spaces between skin cells and keep everything tight, smooth, and protected.

They’re your skin’s natural defense squad, sealing in moisture and keeping out irritants. But like we said, your natural ceramide levels start to drop with age. That’s where skincare steps in to keep things balanced.

What Do Ceramides Actually Do For Your Skin?

Of the many admirable qualities of ceramides, these key benefits make a strong case for including them in your skincare routine:

• Strengthening your skin barrier to defend against external irritants and pollutants.

• Preventing moisture loss by sealing hydration into the skin, preventing dryness and flakiness.

• Reducing sensitivity and irritation by restoring balance in the skin barrier.

• Contributing to a smoother and firmer complexion by hydrating skin cells and protecting against damage.

Ceramides & Skin Longevity

Skin longevity is our top priority here at Timebeam. We believe that skin is a reflection of internal health, not just surface-level fixes, and that vitality should start from a molecular level beneath the skin barrier.

Ceramides work deeper than most ingredients. They integrate directly into your skin’s structure, making long-term improvements to hydration and resilience. That’s why we’ve packed them into not only our serum balm but also our supplements —because great skin starts below the surface. 

Types of Ceramides in Skincare (Yes, There’s More Than One)

Ceramides come in different types, and each one does something a little different. Here’s your cheat sheet:

• Ceramide NP repairs the skin barrier by mimicking the ceramides naturally found in our skin. It helps retain moisture, reduce inflammation, and boost overall hydration, making it a good fit for dry or sensitive skin.

• Ceramide AP gently exfoliates while reinforcing the skin barrier. Simultaneously, it promotes skin renewal and hydration, particularly in dull or aging skin.

• Ceramide EOP strengthens the skin’s protective barrier against environmental stressors and supports damaged or irritated skin by aiding in repair and resilience.

Each of these ceramides can be sourced from plants or synthetically developed in laboratories. 

At Timebeam, we use natural ceramides extracted from olive oil to nourish and hydrate your skin.

When Should You Start Using Ceramides 

Short answer: ASAP.

Ceramides are for everyone, no matter your skin type. Here’s how they support you through the decades:

In your 20’s & 30’s: Ceramides maintain a strong, hydrated skin barrier and prevent premature aging.

In your 40’s & Beyond: Ceramides restore natural levels as they decline over time, leading to dryness and sensitivity.

For dry or dehydrated skin: Ceramides deeply hydrate and seal in moisture.

For sensitive or compromised skin: Ceramides repair and strengthen the skin. 

Use our Moisture Melt Serum Balm after cleansing at night to lock in hydration while you sleep. Pair it with the Reset Mode Healthy Pixie for a full-on ceramide glow-up, inside and out.

How Often Should You Use Ceramides?

Every. Single. Day. Ceramides are super gentle, so you can use them both morning and night without stressing out your skin. We’re big fans of applying them at night, when your skin is in repair mode. 

Our Moisture Melt pairs ceramides with other complementary ingredients like resveratrol and squalane for a juicy, skin-reviving treatment that works while you sleep. You’ll wake up with skin that looks—and feels—so good.

The Bottom Line: Ceramides = Your Skin’s Ride-or-Die

Ceramides keep your skin barrier strong, hydrated, and calm—whether you’re 22, 42, or beyond. And with Timebeam’s Moisture Melt Serum Balm and Reset Mode Healthy Pixie, working them into your routine is as easy as cleanse, swipe, sip, and sleep.

Ready to lock in that glow and keep your skin thriving? Ceramides have your back.

Got questions? Need help picking the right routine? Hit us up at hello@timebeam.com—we’ve got you.