What are lipids?

We’ve all heard of the concepts cholesterol, ceramides and essential fatty acids before, whether the subject matter is food or skincare. We often forget, however, that these three-compounds form part of the makeup of the skin and how skin looks and behaves. Let’s explore more about lipids. What are they and what do they do? Why are they important? How do they work together to slow down the skin’s ageing process?

What are Lipids and what do they do?

Lipids are a family of natural compounds that are mostly insoluble in water. Lipids are molecules that are composed of fats and oils that yield high energy. They have a chemical composition mainly made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Lipids perform three primary biological functions within the body: they serve as structural components of cell membranes, function as energy storehouses, and function as important molecules transporters.

While there are many types of lipids, the most prevalent, and important, for the skin are Cholesterol, Ceramides, and Fatty Acids. In the skin, they play a crucial role in maintaining the strength of the skin’s protective barrier, which prevents Transepidermal Water Loss (TWL), protects the skin from damage and keeps dirt and impurities out. They also aid the skin’s natural repair process.

What happens when lipid production declines?

As we age, our skin becomes more vulnerable and our skin’s natural protective barrier is compromised as lipid production declines. This impacts our skin barrier as well on our skin’s natural ability to repair itself, which results in dehydration as well as a sensitised skin.

The deterioration of lipids causes the skin to feel and appear rough, uncomfortable tightness, dull skin tone and a loss of facial fullness. A healthy lipid layer helps the skin to repair itself, improve skin texture and tone, increase hydration levels in the skin, and reduce the development of fine lines and wrinkles. Without this vital lipid layer, our skins are at risk of accelerated ageing.

When our lipid layer is compromised, the skin becomes sensitive, reactive, dry, inflamed and irritated and in some cases, painful. The skin becomes less tolerant of active ingredients, irritants, and allergens.

Put your skin’s pH first with pHformula

Research suggests that the most effective skincare routine to maintain a healthy skin barrier is one with a lipid composition almost identical to our skin’s composition.

Mela Concentrated Corrective Serum

Mela Concentrated Corrective Serum contains a specialized blend of active ingredients and moisture-binding ingredients to even out skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation, leaving the skin healthy and hydrated. It contains a booster of cell detoxification and longevity, providing new life to fatigued skin. Helps to reinforce the biological pathway of the cell autophagy helping to reduce the level of oxidized proteins and peroxidised lipids.

Hydra Concentrated Corrective Serum

Hydra Concentrated Corrective Serum contains a specialized blend of active ingredients and moisture-binding ingredients that intensively hydrate skin’s deepest surface layers. A synergistic combination of Ferulic acid and vitamin E assists with superior restoration of the skin and protection against free radicals as well as lipid peroxidation.

SOS rescue cream

The SOS rescue cream is a rich cream for dry to very sensitive skin, which forms a shield on the skin’s surface for superior protection. Ideal to protect dry or windburn skin and lips. Preventive and protective action is essential to combat ageing, as in many cases it can minimize the consequences of external stresses and therefore slow down the extrinsic ageing process. With the availability of well-researched and intelligent ingredients, we can now provide a superior barrier to protecting benefits.

SOS rescue oil

The SOS rescue oil is a unique combination of oil blends and naturally sourced actives, infusing the skin with a healthy glow and youthfulness. Collagen production improves, helping soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles while visibly firming skin. It provides natural barrier protection for the skin. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids which helps in the restoration of the hydro-lipidic film of the skin. The high level of Vitamin E and Ferulic acid serves as a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent damage caused by sun exposure. It also contains linoleic acid, which is one of the omega-6 fatty acids that assist to preserve skin cell integrity.

SOS eye rescue

The pHformula SOS eye rescue is formulated with a powerful combination of active ingredients to help brighten, smooth and detoxify the eye contour area. It contains a unique peptide complex which assists in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as puffiness and dark circles. Rich in skin-identical ceramides, which help to improve skin elasticity and hydration. Light-reflecting pigments instantly brighten the skin around the eye area.

Regular skin resurfacing treatments

Regular in cabin skin resurfacing treatments will maximise your results supported by the correct homecare regime.

Connect with your pHformula skincare specialist today. Invest in a healthy skin, it’s the one thing that represents you when people look at you.