INCI: Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NG - Also known as: Skin-Identical Lipids, Sphingolipids, Stratum Corneum Lipids

Quick Facts

What are ceramides?

Ceramides are a family of waxy lipid molecules that form the structural backbone of the stratum corneum's intercellular matrix - the "mortar" that holds the outermost skin cells together and plays a role in regulating what the barrier keeps in and out. In healthy skin, ceramides account for approximately 50% of the total lipid composition of this matrix, making them the single largest lipid group associated with skin barrier integrity. They exist as part of a three-lipid system alongside cholesterol and free fatty acids; research suggests all three must be present in appropriate balance for the barrier to function at its best.

At Sweet Chemistry, ceramides are not a trace addition. Each formula in the Max Repair System contains 3% ceramides - a meaningful concentration - formulated alongside phytosphingosine and cholesterol to mirror the complete lipid environment of a healthy, youthful-looking barrier. Four distinct ceramide types are used across the four formulas: Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, and Ceramide NG. Each belongs to a different ceramide subclass, with a different fatty acid chain structure and a different positional role within the lamellar bodies of the stratum corneum.

The synthetic ceramides used across the Sweet Chemistry lineup are bioidentical to the ceramides the skin naturally produces - meaning they are designed to integrate into the lipid bilayer structure rather than rest on top of it as surface-only occlusives.

What do ceramides do for the skin?

Research on ceramides suggests they may help support the lamellar structure of the stratum corneum's lipid matrix. When the skin's intercellular lipid content is depleted - through aging, environmental exposure, over-cleansing, or active ingredient overuse - this structure can become disorganized, which is associated with increased trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), tight or reactive-feeling skin, and a compromised environment for other skincare actives. Replenishing ceramide levels topically is one of the most well-studied approaches to supporting the skin's surface integrity.

Research also associates a more intact barrier with a calmer, less reactive skin surface - because a stronger barrier is less likely to allow environmental triggers to penetrate and provoke sensitivity responses. This is why ceramide-containing formulas are so consistently linked to improvements in both dryness and sensitivity in the published literature. Within the Sweet Chemistry Max Repair System's independent clinical study data, barrier repair was observed within 1 hour of application, and barrier function showed statistically significant improvement in 70% of subjects within 4 weeks.

The four ceramide types used across the Sweet Chemistry lineup each contribute differently to this approach. Ceramide NP and Ceramide AP are among the most abundant physiological ceramides in skin and are central to the lamellar body's lipid organization. Ceramide EOP contains a linoleic acid ester that research associates with barrier water permeability control. Ceramide NG is a non-hydroxy fatty acid ceramide that contributes emollient and structural support in the anhydrous Oil-Serum environment. Together they provide a broader ceramide spectrum than any single ceramide type could deliver.

Clinical Study Data (Sweet Chemistry Max Repair System)

Results from an independent clinical study of the Max Repair System. Individual results may vary.

Found In

In All 4 Formulas at 3%

Every product in the Sweet Chemistry Max Repair System contains 3% ceramides - a concentration chosen to be meaningful, not a cosmetic claim.

Nourishment - All Skin Types

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

The Hydra-Serum delivers Ceramide NP and Ceramide AP in a 60%-water/emulsifier emulsion alongside 5% niacinamide, 3% Matrikynes® peptides, and 2% seaweed glycan. The lightest formula in the system - for all skin types, use alone or layered under either cream.

Hydration - Dry to Normal

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

The Hydra-Cream delivers all three physiological ceramides - EOP, AP, and NP - within a full barrier lipid complex paired with 3% Matrikynes® peptides and 2% THD ascorbate. A cushioned satin finish for dry to normal skin.

Hydration - Dry to Dehydrated

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

The Lipid-Cream pairs the same three-ceramide complex with shea butter, sea buckthorn seed oil, and jojoba seed oil for the richest, most emollient formula in the lineup.

Nourishment - Dry to Combination

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

The waterless Oil-Serum delivers Ceramide NP and Ceramide NG as part of a complete anhydrous barrier complex alongside 2% omega 3/6, 1% cholesterol, and 0.2% phytosphingosine. A 100%-active, zero-carrier-oil formula.

Works Together With

Barrier Lipid Cholesterol

INCI: Cholesterol.

Present at 1% in the Hydra-Serum and Oil-Serum, and as part of the 3% barrier lipid blend in both creams. A physiological sterol that forms the second essential component of the lamellar lipid matrix alongside ceramides. Synergy Note: Research suggests ceramides and cholesterol may need to coexist in appropriate balance within the stratum corneum for lamellar body organization. Delivering them together addresses the barrier's lipid needs more completely than either alone. 

Ceramide Precursor Phytosphingosine

INCI: Phytosphingosine.

A sphingoid base present in all four formulas alongside the ceramide complex - it acts as both a potential ceramide biosynthesis precursor and an independent soothing agent. Synergy Note: Phytosphingosine is researched in connection with the skin's natural ceramide production pathways, extending the barrier-supporting character of the formula beyond direct topical ceramide delivery. 

ECM Peptide Complex Matrikynes® Bone Peptides

INCI: Hydrolyzed Cow Bone Extract.

A 3% patent-pending concentrate of 315+ bioactive matrikine peptides present in all four formulas - associated with improvements in the appearance of skin density and aging signs. Synergy Note: Ceramides support the epidermal barrier environment; Matrikynes® targets the deeper dermal matrix. A well-supported, low-inflammation barrier surface creates a better environment for peptide-driven activity. 

Vitamin B3 Niacinamide

INCI: Niacinamide.

Present at 5% in the Barrier Repairing Hydra-Serum. Niacinamide has been studied for its association with the skin's own ceramide production through NAD+-related pathways. Synergy Note: Topical ceramides directly replenish the lipid stores the barrier needs; niacinamide has been studied in connection with supporting the skin's own ceramide synthesis. Together they approach barrier support from two independent directions.