Ceramides in Nutrition and Cosmetics – EU Market & Stability Formulas

Ceramides are lipid molecules that form part of the skin barrier, helping retain moisture and protect against environmental stressors.
While they have been a staple in topical skincare for years, oral ceramides are now gaining traction in the European beauty-from-within market.

For brands, success depends on understanding the differences between cosmetic and nutritional applications, ensuring regulatory compliance, and formulating for stability.

What are Ceramides?

Ceramides are sphingolipids found in the outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum). They act as “mortar” between skin cells, sealing in hydration and preventing barrier damage.

Sources in supplements and cosmetics:

Plant-derived (phytoceramides): Wheat, rice, or konjac glucomannan
Synthetic ceramides: Used primarily in topical skincare
Animal-derived: Rarely used in supplements due to consumer preference for vegan or plant-based options

Ceramides in Nutrition

Oral ceramides — often called phytoceramides — are designed to restore skin hydration from the inside out. Clinical studies show improvements in skin smoothness, elasticity, and reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after several weeks of supplementation.

Stability considerations:

Sensitive to oxidation — require antioxidant protection (vitamin E or rosemary extract)
Must be kept away from heat, light, and moisture
Encapsulation or microencapsulation improves shelf life

Formulation formats:

Capsules (most common for stability)
Tablets (with controlled-release coating)
Powder sachets (must be moisture-proof to prevent lipid degradation)

EU Market Trends

Beauty-from-within

Growing beauty-from-within awareness has driven oral ceramide product launches
“Dual approach” beauty systems

Topical + oral “dual approach” beauty systems are trending, offering synergy between supplement and skincare formats
Highest demand

Demand is highest in premium anti-aging and hydration-focused segments
Vegan and gluten-free certification

Plant-derived ceramides with vegan and gluten-free certification are gaining market share

Formulation Best Practices

For supplements:

Use microencapsulation to protect ceramides from oxidation and moisture
Combine with synergistic nutrients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and zinc for enhanced skin hydration and elasticity
Choose packaging with desiccants for extended shelf life

Formats We Can Produce

At BF-EssE, we can develop your custom product in:

All are available flavored or unflavored, natural or colored.
Want your supplement pink, red, green, or gold? We use safe, EU-compliant colorants (natural or synthetic) to match your product vision and branding.

Flavors You Can Choose:

We stock over 12 high-quality flavors — perfect for beauty, wellness, or fitness branding.
Best sellers:

Hibiscus
Peach
Vanilla

Also available:

Chocolate
Pineapple
Green Apple
Blackсurrant
Green Tea
...and more. Custom blends on request.

Capsules

Find out more about encapsulation

Sachets

Find out more about Sachets

Pouch bags

Find out more about bulk packaging

Labeling & Health Claims: What You Need to Know

For supplements:

Regulated under Directive 2002/46/EC
No EFSA-approved specific health claims for ceramides; marketing must focus on structure/function benefits (e.g., “helps maintain skin hydration”)
Allergen labeling required for wheat-derived ceramides

See: Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 — Health Claims

Ready to Launch?

Contact BF‑EssE’s team for tailored support.

Ceramides are powerful allies for skin health, both in nutrition and cosmetics. With the EU market leaning toward premium, science-backed products, brands that combine effective delivery formats, stability-focused formulation, and regulatory compliance can capture the growing demand for barrier-supporting beauty solutions.