Teardrop time capsules iron out the wrinkles

CERAMIDE has become the buzzword of the beauty industry as more women try the expensive skin treatments containing some of the skin's natural components.

In 1990, the research department of US-based cosmetics giant Elizabeth Arden discovered the effectiveness of using ceramides - part of a specialised group of biomolecules called barrier lipids - which are lodged in the top layer of the skin and fill in spaces between cells. The function of ceramides is to lock in moisture.

Last year, the company launched the Ceramide Time Complex Capsules, little plastic teardrop-shaped capsules containing the liquid, which are applied to the skin to help smooth out wrinkles and tiny lines.

The capsules should be applied daily for up to three months, followed by three to four applications a week.

Ceramides is awaiting patent approval from the US Government.

While the capsules are not cheap - 60 cost $670 - they are selling well in Hongkong among women who have seen their skin texture improve after regular applications.

Elizabeth Arden has also launched a similar product for the eyes. Studies showed at least a third of women in their 30s were concerned about premature creasing in the eye area, and most women tried treatments to help eradicate fine lines, puffiness and shadowy circles around this area.