What are the benefits of ceramides in body wash?

What do ceramides do for your skin?

Ceramides are fats naturally present in the outer layer of your skin. They help hold that layer together so it functions as a barrier between your body and the outside world. Added ceramides can replenish these fats, help retain moisture and support the barrier that keeps harmful substances and allergens out. Those are general ceramide benefits; the body wash's complete formula matters too.3

Which body wash should you choose?

For dry or sensitive skin, look for a gentle, fragrance free wash. A body wash still needs to cleanse gently; ceramides on the bottle are not a permission slip for a harsh formula. "Unscented" is not the same as fragrance free: a product can contain chemicals that hide other ingredients' smells and irritate dry, sensitive skin.2

As one example, US CeraVe Soothing Body Wash is formulated for very dry skin, including sensitive and itchy skin. It contains three ceramides, hyaluronic acid and omega oils, and is fragrance free. The formula is designed to cleanse and soothe without disrupting the skin barrier. Check your package's ingredient list when buying, because formulas can change.1

If ordinary shower gels leave your skin dry or itchy, an emollient soap substitute is another option. Emollients are moisturizing treatments that trap moisture with a protective film. Foam is not a cleaning scorecard: emollient soap substitutes do not foam like normal soap but clean just as effectively.4

How should you use a ceramide body wash?

1. 1Keep baths and showers to five to ten minutes, using warm rather than hot water.
2. 2Use enough gentle cleanser to remove dirt and oil, without building a thick lather. Concentrate on areas that need cleansing, such as your armpits and groin.
3. 3Follow your wash's directions. For CeraVe Soothing Body Wash, wet the skin with lukewarm water, massage gently in circular motions, then rinse. It can be used at any time of day.
4. 4Pat dry gently, leaving the skin damp. Apply moisturizer within three minutes of washing. For very dry skin, choose a cream or ointment rather than a lotion.

When should you change products or get help?

If an emollient wash stings and the sensation does not settle after rinsing, ask a pharmacist for a different product. Tell a dermatologist about burning, stinging or irritation from skincare. If dryness continues despite gentle washing and regular moisturizing, see a dermatologist. If you use an emollient alongside a prescribed skin treatment, leave 20 to 30 minutes between applications and ask your doctor which to apply first.24