Ceramides 0.3% + Madecassoside
Ceramides 0.3% + Madecassoside
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, gel-cream moisturizer formulated with 0.3% pure ceramides (5 essential types) and Madecassoside to repair damaged skin barrier, reduce irritation, and lock in hydration — specifically designed for oily and combination skin types.
Barrier Repair (3:1:1 Ratio)
Ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids in the clinically proven 3:1:1 ratio — mirroring healthy skin composition to accelerate barrier recovery.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Repair (3:1:1 Ratio)
Ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids in the clinically proven 3:1:1 ratio — mirroring healthy skin composition to accelerate barrier recovery.
Centella-Powered Soothing
Madecassoside (a Centella Asiatica active) calms inflammation, inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines, and promotes wound healing.
Multi-Layer Hydration
Aminobutyric Acid (GABA), Glycerin, Trehalose, and Saccharide Isomerate work together to provide deep, long-lasting hydration via aquaporin activation.
Oat Kernel Protection
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract is an FDA-recognized skin protectant that soothes irritation and strengthens the moisture barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Polysorbate 20, Glyceryl Stearate, and Sucrose Distearate — ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have active fungal acne.
Oil-free, non-comedogenic gel-cream formula. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Ceramides help buffer irritation caused by potent actives.
Free from fragrances, essential oils, dyes, and common allergens. Formulated at skin-friendly pH 5.0–6.0.
As with all skincare, perform a patch test on inner arm or behind ear before full facial application — especially for very reactive or eczema-prone skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTS5 Essential Ceramides 0.3%Proven
A blend of Ceramide NP, EOP, NS, AS, and AP — the same ceramides found naturally in your skin. Delivered at a true 0.3% pure active concentration (not a diluted ceramide complex), these lipids fill gaps in the skin barrier to reduce transepidermal water loss.
- Source: iActive Ceramide from Kimika USA (high-purity grade)
- Ratio: Ceramide:Cholesterol:Fatty Acid in clinically proven 3:1:1 ratio
- Research: Studies confirm this 3:1:1 ratio mirrors healthy skin lipid composition and accelerates barrier repair
Madecassoside ~0.4–0.6%Proven
A key bioactive compound isolated from Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola). Known for powerful anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and antioxidant properties. It inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines and stimulates collagen production in dermal fibroblasts.
- Anti-inflammatory: Significantly inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine activity
- Hydration: Enhances skin hydration and boosts ceramide content in keratinocytes
- Brightening: Inhibits UV-induced melanin synthesis (study: 0.05% twice daily for 8 weeks)
- Soothing: At 0.2%, reduces redness and peeling in atopic dermatitis
Ursolic AcidPromising
A pentacyclic triterpenoid found in many plants. Supports skin barrier repair, provides anti-inflammatory benefits, and may help stimulate ceramide production in the skin.
- Function: Strengthens and repairs damaged skin barrier
- Synergy: Works alongside ceramides to enhance overall barrier function
Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)Promising
A neurotransmitter-like molecule used topically to boost skin hydration. Works by activating aquaporin channels in skin cells, allowing greater water uptake and retention for plumper, more hydrated skin.
- Mechanism: Aquaporin-boosting for enhanced cellular hydration
- Benefit: Provides intense hydration from within the skin cells
Oat Kernel ExtractProven
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract is an FDA-recognized skin protectant with well-established soothing and antioxidant properties. Particularly beneficial for dry, irritated, inflamed, or eczema-prone skin.
- Status: FDA OTC Skin Protectant monograph ingredient
- Benefits: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-protective
CholesterolProven
A skin-identical lipid that makes up about 25% of the skin's extracellular matrix. Works synergistically with ceramides and fatty acids to maintain barrier integrity, acting as both an emollient and a barrier-reinforcing ingredient.
- Role: Essential component of the 3:1:1 ceramide:cholesterol:fatty acid ratio
- Function: Stabilizes the lipid bilayer and supports barrier homeostasis
33 ingredients
Aqua, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Glucoside, Butylene Glycol, Trehalose, Saccharide Isomerate, Ursolic Acid, Aminobutyric Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Allantoin, Cholesterol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Madecassoside, Polyacrylate-13, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate 20, Glyceryl Stearate, Sucrose Distearate, Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ceramide NP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NS, Ceramide AS, Ceramide AP, Triethanolamine, Ethylhexylglycerine, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Carbomer, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM & PM daily. Apply after cleansing, toning, and all serums. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with a clean face. Apply toner and any serums (vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, etc.) and let them absorb for 30–60 seconds.
Dispense
Take a pea-to-dime-sized amount of the gel-cream onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this formula.
Apply & Massage
Dot onto forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently massage in upward, outward motions until fully absorbed. Avoid the eye area.
Seal & Protect
In the morning, follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. At night, this can be your final step — or layer a sleeping mask for extra hydration if needed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that needs barrier repair
- You use retinol, AHAs, or BHAs and need a soothing buffer
- Your skin barrier is compromised from over-exfoliation
- You want a lightweight moisturizer that won't feel greasy
- You prefer fragrance-free, science-backed formulas
- You're looking for an affordable ceramide moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need a richer, heavier moisturizer
- You have active fungal acne (contains Polysorbate 20, Glyceryl Stearate)
- You need a moisturizer with SPF included
- You prefer a thick, occlusive balm-type texture
- You want additional actives like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid built in
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for oily skin. Lightweight gel-cream absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. Oil-free formula.
Balances well across T-zone and cheeks. Hydrates dry areas without overloading oily zones.
Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, with Madecassoside for soothing. Great for sensitized skin, but patch test if extremely reactive.
Provides hydration but may not be rich enough on its own. Layer with a heavier moisturizer or consider the Bisabolol variant for dry skin.
Non-comedogenic (1/5) and oil-free. Safe for acne-prone skin. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Immediate Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels softer, more comfortable, and less tight after application. Surface-level dryness and flaking are reduced. The gel-cream texture provides instant relief to dehydrated skin.
85% noticed softer skinReduced Irritation & Sensitivity
Skin irritation and sensitivity start to decrease as the ceramide-cholesterol-fatty acid complex rebuilds the barrier. Redness and reactivity begin to improve.
87% found sensitivity reducedVisible Barrier Strengthening
Skin barrier is noticeably stronger. Transepidermal water loss is reduced. Skin holds moisture better throughout the day and tolerates active ingredients more comfortably.
80% reported improved moisture retentionHealthy, Resilient Skin
With consistent daily use, skin barrier is fully repaired. Skin appears healthier, more balanced, and more resilient to environmental stressors. Fine lines from dehydration may appear reduced.
87% felt skin soft & suppleRatings by platform
23K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- True 0.3% pure ceramide concentration (not a diluted complex)
- Clinically backed 3:1:1 ceramide:cholesterol:fatty acid ratio
- Lightweight gel-cream perfect for oily and combination skin
- Completely fragrance-free, silicone-free, and paraben-free
- High-purity iActive Ceramide sourced from Kimika USA
- Madecassoside provides proven soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits
- Very affordable compared to similar ceramide moisturizers
- Works beautifully as a post-active buffer (retinol, AHA, BHA)
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Polysorbate 20, Glyceryl Stearate)
- Small 50g tube — heavy users may go through it in 3–4 weeks
- Too lightweight for dry skin types (consider Bisabolol variant)
- Can feel slightly sticky if too much product is applied
- No niacinamide or hyaluronic acid in the formula
- Some users report pilling when layered under certain sunscreens
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 3 essential ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) with cholesterol and hyaluronic acid. Richer texture, larger size (12 oz), and MVE delivery technology. However, heavier formula and contains dimethicone (silicone). Better for normal-to-dry skin.
Features Centella Asiatica extract with Ceramide NP and niacinamide. Richer cream texture vs. gel-cream. Contains beeswax and sunflower oil — heavier and not fungal acne safe either. Better for normal-to-dry skin types.
K-beauty gel moisturizer with Ceramide NP and Madecassoside. Lightweight texture comparable to Minimalist. Uses a pseudo-ceramide (Hydroxypropyl Bispalmitamide MEA) rather than pure ceramides. Larger 175ml size but no disclosed ceramide concentration.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (18 months total shelf life from manufacturing date)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use. No refrigeration required.
Opaque squeeze tube with screw cap. Protects light-sensitive ingredients from UV degradation.
Yes — 50g / 1.7 oz is well under the 100ml / 3.4 oz TSA carry-on limit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This moisturizer contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreen filters. All 33 ingredients are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing new products during pregnancy.
No. This product contains Polysorbate 20 (a polysorbate), Glyceryl Stearate (an ester), and Sucrose Distearate — all of which can feed Malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis), avoid this product and look for a fungal-acne-safe moisturizer instead.
Yes, absolutely. Ceramide moisturizers are ideal companions for potent actives. Ceramides repair and strengthen the skin barrier, which helps buffer the irritation, dryness, and peeling caused by retinol, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), and vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid). Apply your active first, let it absorb, then layer this moisturizer on top.
This product is specifically formulated for oily and combination skin. Its lightweight gel-cream texture absorbs quickly without leaving greasiness. If you have dry skin, Minimalist offers a separate variant — Ceramides 0.3% + Bisabolol — which features a richer cream formula with additional occlusives like petrolatum.
Most users notice softer, more hydrated skin within the first week. According to the brand's clinical data, 87% of subjects reported reduced skin irritation and sensitivity after just 2 weeks of daily use. Full barrier repair typically takes 4–8 weeks of consistent AM and PM application.
Apply after cleansing, toning, and all water-based serums. This is your moisturizer step. In the morning, follow with sunscreen as the final step. At night, it can be your last step, or you can top it with a sleeping mask or facial oil for extra hydration.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic. The gel-cream formula is designed to be lightweight and non-pore-clogging. Most acne-prone users report no breakouts. However, individual reactions can vary — always patch test first.
The product has a total shelf life of 18 months from the date of manufacturing. Once opened, use within 12 months for best efficacy. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the ceramides and Madecassoside from light degradation. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap tightly sealed.
Verdict: Minimalist Ceramides 0.3% + Madecassoside is one of the best-value ceramide moisturizers on the market — especially for oily and combination skin types. Its standout feature is full ingredient transparency: a disclosed 0.3% pure ceramide concentration across 5 essential ceramide types, formulated in the clinically validated 3:1:1 ratio with cholesterol and fatty acids. The addition of Madecassoside provides proven anti-inflammatory and barrier-boosting benefits. The lightweight gel-cream texture is ideal for those who find most ceramide creams too heavy. The main drawbacks are its small 50g size, the fact that it's not fungal acne safe, and that dry skin types will likely need something richer. Overall, an excellent, science-driven choice for barrier repair on a budget.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Avena Sativa Kernel Extract
Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Abrasive, Antioxidant
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Dicaprylyl Carbonate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Glucoside
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
|