Ceramides, especially Ceramide NG (also known as ceramide II), is one of the most important ingredients in daily skincare – both for prevention and epidermal regeneration. Their presence in a good face cream is no accident – ceramides play a key role in the structure of the lipid barrier, responsible for skin hydration, elasticity, and resilience. In this article, we will take a closer look at the properties of ceramide NG, its use in facial cosmetics, and the best skincare solutions that incorporate it.
What is ceramide NG and what does it mean for the skin?
Ceramide NG (INCI name: Ceramide II) is a lipid molecule naturally found in the stratum corneum of the epidermis. Under physiological conditions, it forms a coherent system with cholesterol and fatty acids, protecting the skin against excessive water loss and the penetration of external factors. Its deficiency leads to disruption of the skin barrier, which manifests as dryness, tightness, irritation, or even micro-cracks.
According to research by Choi and Maibach (2005), an adequate amount of ceramides in the stratum corneum is crucial for maintaining the integrity and tightness of the epidermal barrier. In individuals with dry, atopic, or mature skin, a significant reduction in these lipids is observed, which translates into a deterioration of the skin's protective functions.
Read also What should the daily care of mature skin look like?.
NG ceramide cream – when is it worth using?
Ceramide creams are now the standard in conscious, professional facial care. Ceramide NG is especially recommended during periods of intense exposure to environmental factors (cold, wind, sun), after cosmetic treatments, and for mature or sensitive skin.
Ceramide NG effectively:
- improves hydration levels and reduces TEWL (transepidermal water loss)
- supports the regeneration of microdamages in the epidermis
- strengthens the skin's resistance to irritants and allergens
- relieves symptoms associated with irritation and dryness
- makes the skin more elastic and improves its comfort every day
Check what is more important, peptides or ceramides?
Ceramide NG in a facial care set – a combination with peptides and niacinamide
One of the most complete care products containing NG ceramide is our cream with ceramides and peptides. The formula combines the regenerative properties of ceramide II with signaling peptides and niacinamide, an ingredient with proven anti-inflammatory properties and a strengthening effect on the epidermal barrier. This combination makes the cream an ideal daily care product for sensitive, mature, and irritation-prone skin.
Additionally, the presence of ceramides in this product makes it ideal after aesthetic treatments—from microneedle mesotherapy to chemical peels. Skin regains elasticity, hydration, and comfort without exhibiting hyperreactivity.
Check What does niacinamide serum help with? i what is the best niacinamide serum and which is better, niacinamide or ceramides?

Ceramides in the care of mature skin and men's skin
Ceramide loss increases with age, especially after the age of 40. Skin becomes thinner, less resistant to irritants, and its regeneration slows. Creams for mature skin should therefore contain ingredients that support the reconstruction of the epidermal barrier—ceramides, peptides, and humectants are essential.
It's also worth noting that ceramides are effective and well-tolerated by men's skin – often thicker but also prone to dryness, especially after shaving. Therefore, a men's face cream with ceramides can significantly improve skin comfort while supporting its protective and regenerative functions.
Ceramides in facial cosmetics – how to recognize them?
In INCI formulas, ceramides are designated by numbers or symbols, such as Ceramide NP, AP, EOP, and in the case of Ceramide NG, as Ceramide II. Their presence doesn't always indicate effectiveness—what matters is what they're combined with and the concentration at which they're used. Good facial care products should combine ceramides with humectants (such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid) and strengthening lipids.
Professional face creams containing ceramides are often enriched with biomimetic ingredients that mimic the skin's natural composition. This allows them to integrate more effectively with the skin's structure, supporting regeneration and long-lasting hydration. It's also worth noting the presence of emollients, which create a delicate protective film that protects the skin from excessive water loss.

The role of ceramides in daily facial care
Ceramides are ingredients that don't act temporarily, but rather have long-term effects – the more consistent the care, the better the results. Regular use of creams with ceramides improves skin's hydration, elasticity, and firmness, reduces skin reactivity, and restores a healthy appearance.
In daily skincare, ceramides can be used both morning and evening. During the day, they support the skin's protective barrier, while at night, they regenerate and repair damage. They also work well as a base for facial serums, especially in between treatments and for those with a weakened hydrolipid barrier.
Night cream with ceramides – is it necessary?
At night, the skin intensively regenerates and rebuilds damaged epidermal barrier. Therefore, a night cream with ceramides is a perfect complement to your daily skincare routine – it provides ingredients that support the physiological processes occurring in the skin during sleep.
Ceramide NG / Peptides / Niacinamide Cream is perfect for this task – its rich yet lightweight texture supports nighttime regeneration without disturbing skin's balance. Thanks to its peptide and vitamin B3 content, it also improves skin texture and reduces signs of fatigue.
Ceramides and care after aesthetic treatments
Skin undergoing cosmetic and aesthetic medicine treatments (e.g., laser therapy, chemical peels, mesotherapy) requires support in its regeneration and recovery. Ceramides are invaluable here – they help restore the hydrolipid barrier more quickly, minimize the risk of irritation, and restore comfort.
In such cases, it is recommended professional face creams with ceramides and soothing additives that work in harmony with skin physiology. Their use enhances the effectiveness of treatments and shortens recovery time.
Why should ceramides stay in your routine?
Ceramide NG is an ingredient that addresses many of the needs of modern facial skincare – strengthening the protective barrier, supporting regeneration, and bringing comfort to even the most demanding skin. Its effects are physiological and long-lasting – making it a worthwhile addition to your daily skincare routine.
Frequently asked questions about ceramides in facial care
Do ceramides clog pores?
No, ceramides are physiological substances – well-tolerated even by oily and combination skin. Choosing a cream formula that's right for your skin type is crucial.
How often should I use a ceramide cream?
Ideally, daily – morning and evening. Ceramides work best when used consistently.
Are ceramides safe during pregnancy?
Yes, these are ingredients with a high safety profile, also recommended for sensitive skin and pregnant women.
Can ceramides be combined with retinoids?
Yes – this is one of the best combinations. Ceramides soothe the potentially irritating effects of retinoids and support skin regeneration. Check it out. What does retinol serum help with? i are ceramides better than retinol?
How is ceramide NG different from other ceramides?
Ceramide NG is a ceramide with a structure similar to those naturally found in the skin, which makes it effective and well tolerated.
Footnotes:
- Choi, M. J., & Maibach, H. I. (2005). Role of ceramides in barrier function of healthy and diseased skin. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200506040-00005
- Coderch, L., & López, O. (2013). Ceramides and skin function. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-013-0010-x
- Huang, H. C., & Chang, T. M. (2023). Correlations between skin condition parameters and ceramide profiles. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24158291