Lipids: What They Are, Why They Are Important for the Skin, and How to Restore Them

April 8, 2026 · 6 min. read

Lipids are molecules without which your skin simply could not function. They form a protective barrier that keeps moisture in and impurities out. When lipids are lacking, the skin becomes dry, irritated, and ages faster.

What are lipids and why are they important?

Lipids are organic compounds that are poorly soluble or completely insoluble in water. In simple terms, they are fats and related substances that perform many functions in the body: from energy storage to the formation of cell membranes.

The four most important types of lipids for the skin are:

Ceramides make up about 50% of the skin barrier lipids. They act like “cement” between skin cells—holding them together and preventing moisture from evaporating. When ceramides are lacking, the skin becomes dry and sensitive.
Fatty acids nourish the skin and maintain its elasticity. They are essential for barrier function—without them, the skin cannot defend itself against external irritants.
Cholesterol plays a role in structuring skin membranes. It helps maintain skin firmness and prevents it from becoming too thin. We have written more about the role of cholesterol in the skin in a separate article.
Triglycerides—animal and plant fats—nourish the skin from within. They are an important part of the skin’s natural sebum. We also have a more detailed article about triglycerides in cosmetics.

How to recognize a lack of lipids in the skin?

A lack of lipids in the skin is not just “dry skin”. It is a deeper problem with specific signs.

The first signal is that the skin feels tight after washing. If you feel dryness and tightness even after gently washing your face, it is likely that the skin barrier is damaged and there are not enough lipids.

The second sign is that the skin reacts to everything. Does a new cream irritate? Does the wind cause redness? This is a barrier problem. Healthy skin with a sufficient lipid level has a protective layer that reduces external irritants.

The third is that fine lines appear earlier than expected. Dehydrated skin with a lipid deficiency shows signs of aging more quickly because turgor and elasticity are lost.

The main cause? Overly aggressive cleansing. Strong cleansers with sulfates wash away the skin’s natural lipids along with impurities. That is why dermatologists recommend gentle cleansers that cleanse without damaging the barrier.

Beautician's advice

Do you know why skin becomes drier in winter? Not only because of the cold. Heating systems reduce indoor air humidity to 20-30%, which directly affects the skin’s lipid layer. Our cosmetologists recommend switching to richer creams with ceramides and fatty acids in winter. One simple change, and within a few days your skin feels different.

Products for dehydrated skin If you recognize signs of lipid deficiency in your skin, start with specialized products. In our products for dehydrated skin category, you will find creams and serums that restore the lipid barrier and bring moisture back to the skin.

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How to Restore the Skin’s Lipid Barrier?

The good news is that the lipid barrier can be restored. The bad news is that it takes 2–4 weeks of consistent care.

First, change your cleanser. Give up foaming cleansers with sulfates and switch to cream or oil-based cleansers. They cleanse without damaging the barrier.
Second, look for creams with the three key lipids: ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol. Together, these three components restore the barrier most effectively.
Third, do not use retinol or strong acids until the barrier has recovered. They can be beneficial for healthy skin, but for a damaged barrier they will cause even more irritation.
And fourth, hydrate from within. Adequate water intake and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet directly affect the quality of the skin’s lipids. We have written separately about omega fatty acids and their effect on the skin.

Recommended products for restoring the skin’s lipid barrier

DR. SPILLER

HYDRO-MARIN CREAM - Hydro Marin 24h Cream, 50 ml

Hydro-Marin patented 24-hour cream with a concentrated mineral infusion for dry facial skin. The cream activates metabolism, revitalizes, intensely hy...

€74.60 View

TRAWENMOOR ORGANIC

Trawenmoor by Dr. Spiller BODY MASSAGE MUD - Organic Body Massage Mud from Therapeutic Moorlands, 500ml

Massage body mud made from therapeutic, protected German peat bogs. This harmonizing body treatment firms and tones the skin. Features a detoxifying e...

€87.00 View

CELL FUSION C

Moisturizing Cream “Aquaporin Cream”, 60 ml

This is a lightweight, pleasant gel-cream moisturizer that nourishes and soothes sensitive skin. It provides intensive hydration without leaving shine...

€43.50 View

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What are lipids in simple terms?

Lipids are fats and fat-related substances. In the skin, they form a protective barrier that retains moisture and protects against external damage. The most important skin lipids are ceramides (50% of the barrier), fatty acids, and cholesterol. When they are lacking, the skin becomes dry and sensitive.

Why are lipids important for the skin?

Skin lipids act like “cement” between skin cells. Without them, the barrier is disrupted—moisture evaporates, irritants easily penetrate, and the skin becomes reactive. Healthy skin produces lipids naturally, but age, improper cleansing, and environmental factors can reduce their levels.

Which creams restore the lipid barrier?

Look for creams containing ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol — these three ingredients work together to restore the barrier most effectively. Avoid creams with alcohol or strong fragrances, as they can further damage the barrier. Professional products with marine lipids or humic acids also work excellently.