Ceramides are types of fatty substances that are found in the skin. The epidermis and dermal layers of the skin produce and contain ceramides. Ceramides are crucial for the formation of the skin barrier and help skin cells stick together. This helps keep moisture in. Ceramides perform other diverse cellular roles, i.e. differentiation, signaling, and apoptosis within the skin and immunology. Ceramides are responsible for skin barrier function and are considered a fundamental backbone for skin. Natural forms of plant-based ceramides called phytoceramides help keep the skin barrier intact. 

Dry Skin & Ceramides

In a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial, wheat phytoceramides showed significant improvement in dry skin. Fifty-one women age 20 to 63 with dry to very dry skin were given either placebo or phytoceramides for three months. Skin dryness was markedly improved in all perimeters measured. Participants tolerated the phytoceramides supplement with simultaneous appreciation for the improvement in dry skin.

If you tend to get dry skin in the winter months, support of skin ceramides is important. A study observed dramatic changes in skin ceramides in the winter months. Loss of considerable amounts of ceramides occurred during the cold winter months which changed the health of the skin. This led to increased susceptibility of skin xerosis or very dry skin in the winter. Replenishment of the special fats like ceramides in the skin was suggested to help heal the skin and improve the skin barrier.

Ceramide Support

Ceramides extracted from wheat provide an excellent source of phytoceramides. Wellness Resources Skin Rejuvenator contains Ceramosides Wheat Extract, which is non-GMO and gluten free. It contains less than 3 parts per million gluten, an undetectable amount.

Ceramides work together with other lipids to keep the skin healthy. These include the omega-3 fish oil EPA/DHA and squalene. Just like lipids elsewhere in the body, these special fats work best together with antioxidants that help the skin. A diet rich in a rainbow color of fruits and vegetables is the backbone of health. Supplementation with grape seed extract, vitamins A, C, and E, green tea extract, beta carotene, lycopene, zinc, copper, and MSM sulfur provides more support for those who may have skin problems or want to provide additional protection.