Beauty Elixir

Can you use Ceramides with Lactic Acid?

Great combo

Yes, and they work even better together.

Ceramides cushions Lactic Acid: it hydrates and supports the barrier while the active does its work. That means less irritation and better results.

How to use them

Use them in the same routine at night. Apply Lactic Acid first, then Ceramides, moving from thinnest to thickest texture.

  1. 1
    CleanseGentle cleanser, pat dry
  2. 2
    Lactic Acid5% – 10%, wait about 1 minute
  3. 3
    Ceramidesvaries
  4. 4
    Moisturiserseal everything in

What Ceramides does

Lipids that make up about half of your skin barrier. Topping them up reduces water loss, stinging and flakiness, which makes ceramides the best friend of anyone using retinoids or acids.

Typical strength
varies
When
AM/PM
Irritation
Best for
Dry, Sensitive, Normal, Combination And Oily skin

Everything that pairs with Ceramides →

What Lactic Acid does

A gentler AHA with a larger molecule. It exfoliates while also acting as a humectant, so it suits dry and sensitive skin that cannot tolerate glycolic acid.

Typical strength
5% – 10%
When
PM
Irritation
Best for
Dry, Normal And Sensitive skin

Everything that pairs with Lactic Acid →

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Ceramides and Lactic Acid together?

Yes, and they work even better together. Ceramides cushions Lactic Acid: it hydrates and supports the barrier while the active does its work. That means less irritation and better results.

Which goes first, Ceramides or Lactic Acid?

Apply Lactic Acid first, then Ceramides. The general rule is thinnest to thickest texture, and lowest pH first.

Should I use Ceramides in the morning or at night?

Ceramides: works morning or night. Use as your moisturiser step, morning and night. On nights with actives, you can buffer by applying a ceramide cream first.

Should I use Lactic Acid in the morning or at night?

Lactic Acid: best at night. Use 2–3 nights a week. It is good for beginners to exfoliation. Follow with a moisturiser, and wear SPF the next day.

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