ABSTRACT
Enhanced Ceramide Synthesis Through Delivery of Ceramide Precursors Given the critical importance of ceramides to the barrier function many researchers have sought routes to increase the synthesis of ceramides within the skin using lipid precursors. The earliest work relates to the correction of ceramide levels and barrier function in essential fatty acid deficiency by the application of linoleic and linolenic acid (164). Similarly, it has also been demonstrated that the low ratio of CER[EOS] linoleate to CER[EOS] oleate which is characteristically seen in skin in the winter months, and which may predispose such skin to winter xerosis, can be improved by up to 85%, through topical application of formulations containing linoleic acid in the form of natural oils (165). Brod et al. have also demonstrated similar effects on dry skin (166). Thus, increasing the proportion of CER[EOS] linoleate may improve SC function in such conditions.
