<![CDATA[Ceramides are lipid components of the stratum corneum that are essential for maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier and sustaining adequate skin hydration. A decrease in ceramide levels is associated with increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), dry skin, and various dermatological disorders, such as atopic dermatitis and xerosis. This article aims to comprehensively review the potential of ceramides as active ingredients in cosmetic formulations, particularly in enhancing skin hydration and improving skin barrier function. The method used in this study was a literature review conducted by searching scientific articles through the PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases. The selected articles were published between 2016 and 2026. A total of ten articles that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed descriptively. The results indicate that topical application of ceramides consistently improves skin hydration, reduces TEWL, and restores the lipid structure of the stratum corneum across various skin conditions, including normal skin, dry skin, and atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, ceramides demonstrate good safety and tolerability profiles in various cosmetic formulations. In conclusion, ceramides are effective and physiologically relevant active ingredients for supporting the restoration and maintenance of skin barrier function, and they hold significant potential for further development in modern cosmetic formulations.]]>
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