Ceramide 2 (also known as Ceramide NG or Ceramide NS) is one of the most important ceramides naturally present in the skin's stratum corneum lipid barrier. It is a sphingolipid composed of sphingosine (or phytosphingosine) linked to a fatty acid (typically stearic or palmitic). In cosmetics, Ceramide 2 strengthens the skin barrier, restores lipid matrix integrity, reduces transepidermal water loss, and improves hydration retention. This white to off-white powder or waxy solid is a key active in barrier-repair creams, moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sensitive skin treatments, eczema lotions, and post-procedure care products. It delivers clinically proven improvements in dryness, irritation, and skin resilience.
Products with CERAMIDE 2
With samples available
PromaCare® CRM Complex
by Uniproma Chemical
- Original documents
Dermaxyl® CL
by Croda
- Sustainable option
NIKKOL Ceralipid PS236
by NIKKOL GROUP (Nikko Chemicals)
What is CERAMIDE 2 used for?
- Skin conditioning / Barrier repair: Replenishes ceramides in the skin barrier to reduce water loss and improve resilience. Frequently used in moisturizers, creams, and serums for dry, damaged, or compromised skin.
- Moisturizing & hydration support: Enhances long-term hydration by restoring lipid structure. Ideal for winter care, anti-aging lines, and products targeting dehydrated or mature skin.
- Soothing & protective: Reduces irritation, redness, and sensitivity. Common in sensitive skin formulas, eczema care, after-sun products, and post-peel or post-laser treatments for comfort and recovery.
Origin
Ceramide 2 is produced synthetically through biotechnological or chemical synthesis to mimic the natural ceramide NG/NS found in human skin. The process involves linking sphingosine (or phytosphingosine) with a saturated fatty acid (C16-C18). Modern production uses fermentation-derived sphingoid bases and plant-derived fatty acids for higher purity and sustainability. It is supplied as a pure powder or pre-dispersed in lipids/oils for easier formulation, and is 100% vegan (synthetic origin).
What does CERAMIDE 2 do in a formulation?
HAIR CONDITIONING|
MOISTURISING|
SOOTHING|
SKIN PROTECTING|
SMOOTHINGSafety Profile
Ceramide 2 is considered extremely safe for cosmetic use. It has a very low hazard rating from EWG (1) and no significant concerns for irritation, sensitization, comedogenicity, or toxicity. It is identical or bioidentical to skin-native ceramides, showing excellent tolerability even on atopic, sensitive, or infant skin. Non-comedogenic and well-tolerated at typical concentrations (0.01-3%; often effective at 0.1-1%).
CERAMIDE 2 alternatives
CERAMIDE 2 technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes (>250°C) |
| Melting Point | ~90-100°C |
| pH | Neutral |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in oils, lipids, and hot alcohols |