Eczema Management with Best Ceramide Moisturisers

In patients with Eczema, there is an inherent defect of the epidermal barrier of the skin. When this barrier is compromised, bacteria and allergens are able to enter and thus there is an increased risk of secondary infections, which, in turn, can lead to aggravation of eczematous symptoms. It is believed that the best way to manage eczema is to repair the skin barrier or prevent its dysfunction, in which ceramide moisturisers play a critical role.

According to accredited dermatologist Dr Teo Wan Lin  who is an expert on sensitive skin and eczema, “I formulated the Dr Twl Dermaceuticals Multi-CERAM™ Moisturiser after years of prescribing other brands of ceramide moisturisers which I found did not meet the underground clinical needs of patients, at a competitive price point. The high cost of manufacturing ceramide moisturisers lies in its reliance on synthetic sources of ceramide as well as bovine (cow derived) ceramide.”

“In the Dr Twl Dermaceuticals Multi-CERAM™ Moisturiser, which is very competitively priced with a high ceramide content, the novel focus and dermatological concept is on using multiple sources of ceramide for total skin lipid restoration, rather than just relying solely on the expensive synthetic and animal derived ceramide which results in low concentrations of ceramide being used in other ceramide moisturisers, or high price point which is prohibitive.

In the Multi-CERAM™ Moisturiser, phytoceramides are used — these are plant seed oil derived sources of ceramide that directly repair the skin barrier. This is in addition to containing plant anti-oxidants which incidentally combat cellulite, large amounts of glycerin which functions as a humectant, preventing trans-epidermal water loss, as well as Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic acid), a natural component of the skin, for dermal hydration,” Dr. Teo says.

What are Ceramides?

Ceramides are lipids that are naturally found in the intercellular “mortar” within the outer layer of s the statue corneum. They make up 40-50% of the lipid component of the lamellar lipids and are integral to the function of the epidermal barrier. 

In patients with psoriasis, eczema and other dry skin conditions, reduced levels of Ceramides are observed. 

The stratum corneum is comprised of corneocytes compressed within a lipid bilayer, which is made up of 40-45% Ceramides, 25% Cholesterol & 10-15% Free Fatty Acids. If incorporated in the wrong ratio, barrier repair may be impeded. These 3 major components of the stratum corneum bind the protein-rich corneocytes into a water impermeable protective barrier. A deficiency in Ceramides results in excessive transepidermal water loss, dry skin and increased permeability to environmental irritants, allergens and microorganisms. Thus, reduced levels of Ceramides is associated with dermatological disorders such as atopic dermatitis. 

Studies show that if topical ceramides is applied in the correct ratio with cholesterol and free fatty acids, it can help to improve the epidermal barrier in people with Atopic Dermatitis (AD), thereby reinforcing barrier function. Therefore, ceramide moisturisers and cleansers have been proven to provide substantial relief from the symptoms of eczema. 

Ceramide Dominant PED for Eczema

In order for ceramide-containing products to have a positive effect on the skin barrier function, ceramides should be present abundantly in an optimal ratio with other barrier repair ingredients. Our Multi-CERAM Moisturiser is uniquely formulated to ensure the delivery of an optimal ceramide, cholesterol and free fatty acid ratio. In fact, this moisturiser is formulated as a Prescription Emollient Device (PED), the gold standard in eczema management – Eichenfield et al. (2014) [on PubMed], and also the optimal moisturer for barrier protection against maskne – Teo (2020) [on PubMed].

By restoring healthy barrier function, the Dr. TWL Dermaceuticals Multi-CERAM Moisturiser helps to support ceramide synthesis and further augmenting skin barrier repair and skin health in general.

The Multi-CERAM™ Ceramide Moisturiser is uniquely formulated treat Eczema using: 

• Ceramide 1 (EOP) which is significantly deficient in eczema patients and Ceramide 3 (NP) which is linked to the transepidermal water loss experienced in eczema patients. 
• Phytoceramides which aids the repair of skin barrier 
• Sodium Hyaluronate for skin hydration
• Ceramide complex (ceramides, cholesterol & FFA) which delivers ceramides topically in optimal ratios to aid in the reinforcement of the recovery of the skin barrier. 

Management for patients with Eczema 

A daily maintenance routine is vital. One of the main changes in eczema is a disruption and reduction in the layers of corneocytes in the stratum corneum. When the stratum corneum is well hydrated, it swells, allowing increased permeability of topical formulations. The key to managing eczema is through the regular use of a ceramide moisturiser with high ceramide content after showering or washing hands. 

Successful management requires a holistic approach:

1. Avoid triggering factors 
2. Maintain skin care through regular use of a moisturiser and a moisturising cleanser 
3. Pharmacotherapy during acute exacerbations
4. Compliance of skin care products suggested by a dermatologist

Find out more about eczema by clicking here.