What are Phytoceramides?
Phytoceramides are plant-derived lipids that are structurally similar to the ceramides naturally found in human skin. Natural dietary sources of phytoceramides include wheat, rice, corn and oats, as well as some vegetables such as sweet potatoes.
Ceramides act as a barrier in the skin, protecting the body from the external environment and locking in moisture. However, as we age, our body’s natural production of ceramides decreases, compromising the skin barrier and contributing to visible signs of ageing. Because phytoceramides have a similar lipid structure to the ceramides found in our skin, supplementing with phytoceramides may help replenish ceramide levels and support overall skin health.
Health Benefits:
Supports the Skin Barrier
Ceramides make up a significant portion of the skin’s outer layer and contribute to the skin's moisture barrier that helps hold moisture within the skin and keeps irritants out. Phytoceramides can support the repair of this barrier and help to protect the skin against pollution, allergens, and environmental damage. Phytoceramides can also promote the synthesis of collagen which is vital to skin elasticity and firmness, further supporting skin barrier function.
Anti-Ageing Support
As we age our skin loses its natural hydration, elasticity and softness, often becoming dry, sensitive, and wrinkled. Visible ageing is mostly due to skin stressors such as sun exposure, air pollution, smoking and stress. Ceramides play a key role in managing these stressors, and therefore supplementing with phytoceramides can support ceramides in keeping the barrier between harmful environmental toxins.
Typical Use:
Phytoceramides are typically used in the form of capsule or softgel health supplements designed to promote skin health from within. Such supplements can contain phytoceramides as a single ingredient or in combination with other skin health supporting ingredients such as collagen, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.
Phytoceramides are also often an ingredient within topical skin care products to enhance the skins natural moisture barrier and decrease signs of ageing.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20646083/
