Abstract: The present invention discloses a composition for topical use comprising a free sphingoid base and a ceramide. The compositions of the invention are suitable for application to skin conditions associated with an impaired barrier function, in particular to skin conditions further associated with a deranged regulation of cell growth and differentiation, an inflammatory condition and/or an infectious state.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a composition for topical use comprising a free sphingoid base and a ceramide. The compositions of the invention are suitable for application to skin conditions associated with an impaired barrier function, in particular to skin conditions further associated with a deranged regulation of cell growth and differentiation, an inflammatory condition and/or an infectious state.

Abstract: The present invention discloses that topically occurring microbial growth is inhibited by applying a topical composition comprising a sphingoid base. Specifically, said sphingoid base is effectively formulated in combination with a surfactant.

Abstract: A dual chambered dispensing system allows for application of an aqueous composition containing a biologically effective compound which is adequately stabilized. The system separately contains the stabilized biologically effective compound composition in one chamber and an aqueous basic composition in the other. Both compositions are simultaneously delivered from the dispensing system, whereupon the compositions are mixed to result in a final composition suitable for direct application.

Abstract: Novel phytosphingosine-based analogs of ceramide I, methods for the preparation of these novel compounds, cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, and methods for the use thereof are described.

Abstract: The present invention discloses the topical application of ceramides. The present invention provides specific cosmetic compositions comprising a ceramide and an agent to target said ceramide to the proper site of the skin. Specifically it is shown that the ceramide-containing compositions have a high capacity for recovering diminished water-retaining properties of preheated or damaged skin. Furthermore, the ceramide-containing compositions are shown to protect the skin again irritation.

Abstract: The present invention describes phytospringosine-based analogs of ceramides I, as well as cosmetics and pharmaceutical compositions containing these novel compounds and their use.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a novel ceramide 3 derivative which is N-linoleoylphytosphingosine (Ceramide IIIA). In addition, a method for preparing this compound is described. The solubility of this diunsaturated ceramide IIIA is much higher than the solubility of ceramide 1 and a saturated ceramide 3 compound. Compositions containing ceramide IIIA are described which are suitable for topical use. Furthermore, a method is given for maintaining the water permeability characteristics of the skin using compositions comprising ceramide IIIA.

Abstract: The present invention discloses ceramide 3 derivatives based on monounsaturated fatty acids. A preferred compound is N-oleoylphytosphingosine (Ceramide IIIB). A method for preparing these compounds is also disclosed. The solubility of these compounds is higher than the solubility of the corresponding saturated ceramide 3 derivatives, whereas their stability is comparable to saturated ceramide 3 stabilities. In addition, a method is described for maintaining the water permeability characteristics of the skin by topical application of a formulation containing a monounsaturated ceramide 3 derivative.