What should you know about QV ceramides?

Ceramides are naturally occurring fats found between skin cells. They help form a protective barrier that keeps water in and limits irritation from everyday exposure. Dry, tight, flaky or easily irritated skin may benefit from a moisturiser that replenishes this type of barrier lipid. Ceramides do not diagnose the reason for dryness, and they do not replace treatment for an inflamed skin condition.

Apply a suitable amount to clean, slightly damp skin, especially after bathing or washing your hands. Reapply when the skin feels tight or dry. Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansing where possible and avoid scrubbing flaky areas. Check the product label for age guidance and stop using it if it causes new burning, swelling or a spreading rash. For more on the ingredient, see Ceramides, and for broader moisturising care, see Emollient Therapy.

Arrange medical advice if dryness is painful, cracked, bleeding, oozing, rapidly worsening or disturbing sleep despite moisturising. Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips or face, trouble breathing, faintness or a rapidly spreading blistering rash. A clinician can check for eczema, contact dermatitis, infection or another cause.

Could an underlying condition be causing my dryness? Which cleanser and moisturiser texture fit my skin? Should I use a separate medicine for redness or itch, and how should I patch-test a new product?