If your skin were a brick wall, the actual skin cells would be the bricks. But the mortar would be made up of many skin-repairing nutrients and compounds – one of which is called glycosphingolipids. These ‘mortar’ ingredients are vital to smooth, supple skin. They’re the skin’s first line of defense against water loss. When they’re compromised, skin becomes rough, flaky, tight and uncomfortable. Fine lines and wrinkles start to appear. And you know the rest. Moreover, the skin’s healing process is impaired.