Now’s the time to do our part and #StayHome while we wait out the coronavirus pandemic. However, consequences of isolation such as stress, spending more time indoors and less time outside exercising can lead to irritated, sensitive and dehydrated skin.

Cult US skincare brand, CeraVe, has this month launched two new facial skincare products, and it is exactly what our skin needs right now.

Developed with dermatologists, the CeraVe range is enriched with a blend of three essential ceramides (ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II), fatty acids and other lipids to help repair and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.so your skin stays soft and healthy-looking.

Joining its line-up of non-irritating skincare essentials are the Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum and AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF15. These two new products, formulated with CeraVe’s three essential ceramides, help to protect and restore the skin’s natural barrier while intensely hydrating parched skin.

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $29.99

Hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrating ingredient found naturally in the skin; however, the skin needs replenishment to maintain moisture levels. CeraVe’s serum formulated with hyaluronic acid helps bind moisture to the skin’s surface, in turn smoothing skin and providing up to 24 hours of hydration. With three essential ceramides that restore and maintain your skin’s natural protective barrier and vitamin B5 to soothe dry skin, CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum provides the skin with much-needed moisture.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule that can hold approximately 1000 times its weight in water,’ says L’Oreal’s Scientific Communications Manager, Rachel McAdam. ‘It is responsible for giving our skin ‘plumpness’ and contributes to skin luminosity. In skincare, hyaluronic acid acts a powerful agent that attracts water into the epidermis, therefore increasing skin hydration and compensating for skin water loss.’

CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF15, $22.99

This, dear beauties, is a morning skincare multitasker. Featuring three essential ceramides, hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing niacinamide, this face lotion uses patented MVE Delivery Technology to supply much-needed moisture and nourishment throughout the day. Offering Broad Spectrum sunscreen, the SPF 15 formula spreads easily and evenly while leaving a residue-free clear finish. And because this non-comedogenic moisturiser formula won’t clog pores, it’s ideal for all skin types.

The most important ingredient in a skincare regimen is, without doubt, a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB,’ says Australian dermatologist Dr Ryan DeCruz. ‘Ideally this would be a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen lotion that is easy to apply, not too thick nor greasy.

After sunscreen, a moisturiser suited to an individual’s skin type should be an essential part of a daily skincare routine. Whether a patient has dry and sensitive, oily or combination skin, using an appropriate facial moisturiser will support the skin barrier and prevent dehydration. Ideally, the moisturiser will contain scientifically proven ingredients that support the skin’s natural function such as ceramides and niacinamide (vitamin B3).’

What are ceramides?

Ceramides form 50% of our skin barrier seal. They are a naturally produced lipid (oil) component of the skin, forming half of the natural ‘cement’ or ‘seal’ that lies between our skin cells.

Ceramides play a powerful role in keeping skin hydrated by ensuring water doesn’t escape from our epidermis. They also ensure the skin has a strong barrier to the outside world, keeping our skin safe from irritants and aggressions.

Naturally occurring, ceramides can become depleted by exposure to hot water, soaps, chemicals and environmental aggressors. In turn, our skin’s barrier can become compromised, leading to dryness, itching and irritation. Replenishing ceramides with ceramide-infused skincare helps maintain a strong skin barrier and increased moisture levels.

CeraVe’s unique combination of 3 essential Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) were selected due to their major role proven to protect our skin’s barrier function. A reduction in these three key Ceramides can cause dry skin, moisture loss, dehydration and skin conditions.

Ceramides help lock the moisture in our skin. Hyaluronic Acid is a potent molecule that can hold many times its weight in water (moisture). Select CeraVe products combine ceramides with HA to synergistically boost skin hydration and reduce the skin’s water loss.

CeraVe is sold exclusively in Australia at Chemist Warehouse.