What are lipids?

We’ve all heard of the concepts cholesterol, ceramides and essential fatty acids before, whether the subject matter is food or skincare. We often forget, however, that these three-compounds form part of the makeup of the skin and how skin looks and behaves. Let’s explore more about lipids. What are they and what do they do? Why are they important? How do they work together to slow down the skin’s ageing process?

What are Lipids and what do they do?

Lipids are a family of natural compounds that are mostly insoluble in water. Lipids are molecules that are composed of fats and oils that yield high energy. They have a chemical composition mainly made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Lipids perform three primary biological functions within the body: they serve as structural components of cell membranes, function as energy storehouses, and function as important molecules transporters.

While there are many types of lipids, the most prevalent, and important, for the skin are Cholesterol, Ceramides, and Fatty Acids. In the skin, they play a crucial role in maintaining the strength of the skin’s protective barrier, which prevents Transepidermal Water Loss (TWL), protects the skin from damage and keeps dirt and impurities out. They also aid the skin’s natural repair process.

• Cholesterol | This lipid helps accelerate the skin barrier’s recovery and improve the appearance of skin elasticity. Visible skin aging is often caused by cholesterol deficiency on the skin. It’s important to note that cholesterol on your skin is different from the cholesterol found in the blood - having more of it on your skin won’t cause your blood pressure to spike.
• Ceramides | This type of lipid is proven to increase the skin’s hydration and barrier function. Ceramide deficiency is the main cause of dry skin.
• Fatty acids | Abundant in young, healthy skin, fatty acids help maintain the skin’s lipid balance.

Put your skin’s pH first with pHformula

Research suggests that the most effective skincare routine to maintain a healthy skin barrier is one with a lipid composition almost identical to our skin’s composition.

Hydra Concentrated Corrective Serum

Hydra Concentrated Corrective Serum contains a specialized blend of active ingredients and moisture-binding ingredients that intensively hydrate skin’s deepest surface layers. A synergistic combination of Ferulic acid and vitamin E assists with superior restoration of the skin and protection against free radicals as well as lipid peroxidation.

SOS rescue oil

The SOS rescue oil is a unique combination of oil blends and naturally sourced actives, infusing the skin with a healthy glow and youthfulness. Collagen production improves, helping soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles while visibly firming skin. It provides natural barrier protection for the skin. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids which helps in the restoration of the hydro-lipidic film of the skin. The high level of Vitamin E and Ferulic acid serves as a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent damage caused by sun exposure. It also contains linoleic acid, which is one of the omega-6 fatty acids that assist to preserve skin cell integrity.

Regular skin resurfacing treatments

Regular in cabin skin resurfacing treatments will maximise your results supported by the correct homecare regime.

Connect with your pHformula skincare specialist today. Invest in a healthy skin, it’s the one thing that represents you when people look at you.