Describe the detailed structure of the epidermal skin barrier, including processes surrounding its development & maintenance

Identify both endogenous and exogenous factors which can affect the skin barrier

Understand how disruption to the skin barrier is associated with the triggering and/or worsening of various skin concerns

Recognize the basic structure of cutaneous ceramides

Understand the basic pathways of ceramide synthesis

Understand general formulation information relating to ceramides

Recognize the role of physiologic lipids (such as ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol) in the maintenance of the skin barrier

Distinguish between the 2 common nomenclatures used to classify ceramides

Understand the role of proper skin pH in the maintenance of the skin barrier

Understand the current theories and supporting clinical evidence pertaining to the inclusion of ceramides and physiologic lipids into moisturizing, cleanser, sunscreen and treatment-focused topical products

Recognize the basic mechanism for, and characteristics of, xerosis

Identify the evidence-based associations between an altered skin barrier and xerosis

Identify causes and/or contributing factors leading to the development of xerosis

Understand and interpret the results of multiple clinical trials exploring ceramide-based topicals for various causes of xerosis, and the clinical information they provide