Your winter moisturizer needs ceramides — and something to lock them in

Ceramides are the most important ingredient for repairing and strengthening the skin barrier, but they can’t do it alone. You also need humectants and occlusives.

Ceramides are the literal glue between your skin cells. When the barrier is compromised (hello, dry winter air and indoor heating), ceramide levels drop. A moisturizer with ceramides (usually listed as ceramide NP, AP, or EOP) helps patch those gaps. Squalane is another good one — it’s a lipid your skin naturally produces, and it sinks in without feeling greasy. It reinforces the barrier and helps other ingredients absorb.

Don’t overlook glycerin. It pulls water into the skin. In winter, the humidity is low, so glycerin is a workhorse humectant. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is also solid — it boosts ceramide production and calms irritation. For an occlusive layer on top, look for petrolatum, shea butter, or dimethicone. That’s what actually keeps water from escaping.

Ceramides + glycerin + an occlusive = the winning combo. Squalane and niacinamide are nice bonuses. Your skin will thank you by not flaking off.