ceramide

noun

cer·​amide ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd 

ˈser-

plural ceramides

: any of various simple sphingolipids that are composed of a fatty acid linked to sphingosine, are found especially in cell membranes, are involved in mediating various cellular processes (such as those affecting cell differentiation and apoptosis), and act as precursors for more complex sphingolipids

The enzyme controls production of a cellular substance, ceramide, which triggers the natural process of egg cell death.

—L. Stivitz

Moisturizers containing ceramides (natural lipids that are similar in structure to those in the skin's own moisture barrier) … are also worthwhile splurges for women with dry or problem skin, according to independent tester Grove.

—Constance Cardozo

Examples of ceramide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Studies show darker skin is more prone to dehydration, with less ceramides and a higher level of transepidermal water loss. —India Espy-Jones, Essence, 25 Apr. 2024

Gentle chemical exfoliants reveal smoother skin, while ceramides strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 24 Apr. 2024

These include lipids, ceramides, cholesterol, and hyaluronic acid. —Karyn Repinski, Health, 19 Apr. 2024

The formula utilizes a microdose of retinol along with ceramides (a potent moisturizing agent), peptides, and glycerin to keep those ugly retinol side effects to a minimum and leave skin feeling hydrated, supple, and firm. —Danielle Cohen, Glamour, 3 Apr. 2024

First of all, this lotion is packed with ceramides, a gold standard ingredient for strengthening the skin barrier, as well as hyaluronic acid (which, again, draws water in). —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 21 Feb. 2024

With hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, three essential ceramides, and peptides, the product locks in moisture, restores the skin barrier, and reduces wrinkles and fine lines. —Toni Sutton, Peoplemag, 8 Dec. 2023

Check, thanks to a healthy dose of vitamin B5 and three different ceramides, which are naturally occurring lipids (or fat) in the skin. —Danielle Cohen, Glamour, 10 Apr. 2024

The shampoo also contains ceramides and proteins, which aid in repairing damaged hair, retaining moisture, and strengthening the hair to prevent breakage. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 9 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

cerebroside + amide

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

ceramide

noun

cer·​amide ˈsir-ə-ˌmīd 

: any of a group of amido sphingolipids formed by linking a fatty acid to sphingosine and found widely in small amounts in plant and animal tissue