INCI: Ceramide NP - Also known as: Ceramide 3, N-stearoyl phytosphingosine

QUICK FACTS

What is Ceramide NP?

Ceramide NP - where NP stands for non-hydroxy fatty acid / phytosphingosine - is one of the most abundant ceramide subtypes found naturally in the human stratum corneum, and among the most widely researched ceramides in skin science. It is a sphingolipid composed of a phytosphingosine backbone linked to a non-hydroxylated fatty acid chain, most commonly stearic acid. This molecular structure places Ceramide NP among the ceramide types most directly studied in connection with the lamellar body bilayer associated with skin's water permeability.

Research on the ceramide profile of skin in various conditions has consistently identified Ceramide NP as one of the ceramide types most associated with changes in barrier integrity - making its topical replenishment one of the more evidence-based approaches in barrier-focused skincare. It is present in every product in the Sweet Chemistry Max Repair System, reflecting its standing as the cornerstone ceramide of any complete barrier lipid approach.

The synthetic Ceramide NP used in Sweet Chemistry formulas is bioidentical to the ceramide the skin produces itself - designed to integrate into the lamellar structure rather than form a separate surface film, supporting genuine structural replenishment rather than surface-only smoothing.

What does it do for skin?

Ceramide NP is studied in connection with its role in the lamellar bodies of the stratum corneum, where it may contribute to the ordered bilayer structure associated with the skin's water permeability control. When this structure is intact, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) is associated with lower levels, the skin retains moisture more effectively, and the barrier environment is more resistant to penetration by environmental irritants. When ceramide levels are depleted - through aging, over-cleansing, or active ingredient overuse - these functions may be compromised.

Research on topical ceramide application suggests that delivering Ceramide NP in an appropriate vehicle may help support the barrier environment over time, with measurable improvements in TEWL and hydration-related markers observed in studies. Within Sweet Chemistry's independent clinical study of the Max Repair System, statistically significant barrier improvement was observed in 70% of subjects within 4 weeks, and barrier repair was measurable in 61% of subjects within 1 hour of application - results attributed to the complete ceramide lipid system working alongside cholesterol and phytosphingosine.

By helping to restore the skin's surface lipid environment, topical ceramides are also studied in connection with a more settled, less reactive-looking skin surface - since a more intact barrier is associated with less penetration of external triggers that may contribute to visible sensitivity. Individual results may vary.

FOUND IN

In All 4 Formulas

Ceramide NP is the only ceramide type present in every Sweet Chemistry formula. Its universal inclusion reflects its position as the most physiologically significant and research-supported ceramide in the stratum corneum lipid matrix.

Nourishment - All Skin Types

Barrier Repairing Hydra-Serum 3% Pure Ceramides (NP + AP) - 1.0 oz / 30 ml

The Hydra-Serum delivers Ceramide NP alongside Ceramide AP in a water-based emulsion also containing 5% niacinamide, 3% Matrikynes® peptides, 2% seaweed glycan, and 1% cholesterol.

Hydration - Dry to Normal

Elasticity Reinforcing Hydra-Cream 3% Ceramide, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol Blend (incl. Ceramide NP) - 1.7 oz / 50 ml

In the Hydra-Cream, Ceramide NP is formulated within the complete three-ceramide and three-lipid barrier system alongside Ceramide EOP and AP, phytosphingosine, and cholesterol - paired with 3% Matrikynes® peptides and 2% THD ascorbate.

Hydration - Dry to Dehydrated

Elasticity Reinforcing Lipid-Cream 3% Ceramide, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol Blend (incl. Ceramide NP) - 1.7 oz / 50 ml

The Lipid-Cream delivers Ceramide NP within the richest formula in the lineup, alongside shea butter, sea buckthorn, and jojoba seed oil for a barrier-supporting approach suited to dry and dehydrated skin.

Nourishment - Dry to Combination

Barrier Repairing Oil-Serum 3% Ceramides (NP + NG) + Full Barrier Lipid Complex - 1.0 oz / 30 ml

In the waterless Oil-Serum, Ceramide NP is formulated alongside Ceramide NG, 1% cholesterol, 0.2% phytosphingosine, and 2% omega 3/6 in a 100%-active anhydrous base.

WORKS TOGETHER WITH

Barrier Lipid Ceramide AP

INCI: Ceramide AP.

A co-occurring physiological ceramide present in the Hydra-Serum, Hydra-Cream, and Lipid-Cream alongside Ceramide NP. Synergy Note: Ceramide NP and Ceramide AP are found together in healthy skin's lamellar structure. Combining them topically is designed to more closely approximate the natural ceramide distribution within the stratum corneum than using either ceramide alone.

Barrier Lipid Ceramide EOP

INCI: Ceramide EOP.

An acylceramide present in the Hydra-Cream and Lipid-Cream alongside Ceramide NP, studied in connection with the barrier's water permeability function. Synergy Note: Research suggests Ceramide EOP may contribute an architectural role at the outer boundary of the lamellar bilayer, while Ceramide NP is studied in connection with the structural interior - their combined presence is designed to reflect a more complete ceramide environment.

Ceramide Precursor Phytosphingosine

INCI: Phytosphingosine.

Present in all four formulas alongside the ceramide complex. A sphingoid base studied in connection with the skin's ceramide biosynthesis pathways. Synergy Note: Phytosphingosine may contribute to the skin's own ceramide production - extending the barrier-supportive approach of Ceramide NP beyond direct topical replenishment.

Barrier Lipid Cholesterol

INCI: Cholesterol.

Present in all four formulas as the sterol component of the complete lamellar lipid trio. Synergy Note: Research on barrier lipid ratios suggests ceramides and cholesterol may need to coexist in appropriate balance to support lamellar organization - delivering them together is designed to address the barrier's lipid needs more completely than either alone.