When it comes to skincare, most consumers put their money on ingredients like Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. But when a 2026 survey asked a panel of dermatologists, most disagreed.
In a June 2026 study, skin healthcare brand Skinara asked 63 board-certified dermatologists about the most commonly recommended ingredients for anti-aging, pigmentation, acne, and sensitive skin, and asked one question: Which single ingredient matters most for long-term skin health?
The majority chose ceramides. Here is what they had to say:
- Nothing in Your Routine Works Without Them
Ceramides keep skin hydrated, calm, and prepared for skincare. Essentially, they are lipids, which make up about 50% of the skin barrier. But seasonal changes, pollution, over-cleansing, UV exposure, and aging reduce the amount of ceramides the skin can make on its own. By age 40, production decreases by up to 60%.
Dr. Moushumi Das says “People spend hundreds on skincare and wonder why nothing works” said. “In most cases, it's a damaged skin barrier and decreased levels of ceramides. The barrier has thinned to the point where nothing can do its job.
David Chyou, Principal Scientist in computational biology at Skinara, says skin health is influenced by oxidation, inflammation, barrier damage, and how the skin responds to stress. We never stop there; we always ask this question: "Is this ingredient clinically effective on the skin?"
“Healthy skin isn’t just about the skin cells you can see — it also depends on a living ecosystem of microorganisms that help maintain balance, resilience, and barrier function.”
Skinara's dermatologist adds, "I always recommend using fragrance-free, microbiome-safe ceramides so the barrier is repaired without additionally irritating the skin."
- It Makes or Breaks Your Retinol Results
Ceramides are a must-have in any retinol routine. They help retinol penetrate the skin without drying, flaking, or turning it red. When you apply retinol, the skin speeds up cell turnover, which can damage the skin barrier if ceramide levels are not enough.
"The standard in the industry is prescribing ceramides with retinol," says Ada Hathway. “When you take care of your barrier, the skin can tolerate higher and more frequent doses of retinol, helping you achieve better results."
Dermatologists’ Advice: Create a ceramide-rich routine before adding retinol. Choose brands that include probiotics and prebiotics, as they help balance the skin's natural bacteria, creating a strong foundation for retinol.
- It Has No Common Restrictions, Unlike Other Ingredients
Ceramides are one of the few active ingredients safe for every age and skin type. Unlike retinol, vitamin C, and acids, ceramides have no pregnancy restrictions, low stability concerns, and a longer shelf-life. They help lock in moisture without penetrating deep into the skin, which is why dermatologists consider them safe even for babies.
“Ceramides are already part of the skin’s natural structure,” continues David Chyou at Skinara. “So, when you apply ceramides, you are not forcing the skin to change or increase cell turnover; you’re restoring skin balance.”
Dermatologists’ Advice: Maintain ceramide levels proactively to prevent sensitivity, dryness, and long-term barrier damage.