Ceramides are important regulators for cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, aging and other life activities, and are the main components of intercellular lipids in the stratum corneum of the skin.

Source
At present, ceramides can be obtained by natural extraction, chemical synthesis and microbial fermentation.

Purposes
It is a common moisturizing and repairing ingredient in cosmetics.

Efficacy
The common application efficacy of ceramides in cosmetics[1]:

▪ Skin barrier repair

Ceramides can covalently bind to the endothelin of the keratinized envelope of keratinized cells, connecting the lipid matrix and keratinized cells and enhancing the barrier function of the skin.

▪ Moisturizing

Ceramides can promote the expression level of filaggrin and its mRNA. When profilaggrin enters the stratum corneum from the granular layer, it is hydrolyzed by a series of enzymes and converted into polycarboxylic acids, which have moisturizing efficacy. Filaggrin is not only an important structural protein, but also a major source of moisturizing factors.

Applications
It is mainly used in moisturizing and repairing products to relieve dryness and repair the skin barrier.

References
[1] Wand HC, He CF. Research and application status of ceramide in skin[J]. China Surfactant Detergent & Cosmetics, 2019, 49(1): 51-57 (in Chinese).

Panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5, is a precursor of vitamin B5 (i.e., pantothenic acid). Panthenol is a stable form of vitamin B5 with moisturizing, soothing and restorative properties and is an excellent skin and hair protector[1].

Source
Currently, panthenol is mainly obtained by chemical synthesis.

Purposes
It is a common moisturizing and repairing ingredient in cosmetics. It prevents dryness, wrinkles, inflammation, sun exposure and vesicles, maintains suppleness and elasticity, and repairs damage.

Efficacy
When panthenol is added to skin and hair care products, its molecules penetrate into the skin and hair and are rapidly converted into vitamin B5 by the action of related enzymes, which has moisturizing, soothing and repairing efficacy[2].

Applications
It is mainly used in moisturizing and soothing products to relieve dryness and maintain skin moisture, and to soothe and repair sensitive and uncomfortable skin.

It is used in hair care products to keep hair shiny and soft, and also helpful in maintaining a healthy scalp.

References
[1] Xu LX, Feng XL, Kong C. Application and synthesis of D-pantothenyl alcohol[J]. Chemical Production and Technology, 2002,9(2):21-23 (in Chinese).

[2] Sun ZH. Production and application of pantothenic acid and its derivative. Sci Technol Chem Ind, 2004, 12(5): 43-47 (in Chinese).