WHAT ARE PHYTOCERAMIDES?

Growing older proffers up so many blessings: between an evolved assuredness in yourself, deep honest-to-goodness wisdom, and the sexiness that only comes from having lived, there’s so much to look forward to.  Despite all of the juicy soul-work that’s in store, our skin, and specifically its elasticity, doesn’t get the same memo. It’s not a newsflash that the ageing process leaves our skin dry, dull, lifeless– the polar opposite of what our inner enlightenment reflects!  The answer to glowing, vibrant, might-have-just-romped-in-the-sheets ~skin~ comes from the world of Earth and plant medicine and is called phytoceramides.

Phytoceramides // (fie-toe-ser-ah-mydes)

Phyto meaning “of plants”

Ceramides are a family of waxy lipid molecules

Phytoceramides are the plant-derived equivalent of ceramides, a lipid that keeps your skin hydrated and plump. Phytoceramides are often made from sweet potatoes, rice bran, and wheat (and can still be completely gluten-free!). Ceramides are natural components of human skin. In fact, they are molecules in the epidermis, found in high concentrations, all clustered to act like dams and retain water in your cell membranes.

What do phytoceramides do?

Phytoceramides bolster collagen production, maintain the skin barrier and restore the body’s natural lipids. When your body is supported by these moisture-locking superpowers, your skin should see improvements in complexion pigment, texture and the elusive glow factor.

However, as we age, we naturally lose ceramides. These plant-based molecules, when released through the bloodstream (as opposed to just plain digestion, which can break down the enzymes and leave for poor absorption!), they slowly but surely work to replenish and revive your skin. Bottom line: the key to their efficacy happens when you ingest.

How phytoceramides work?

– Phytoceramides have been found to contain lipids that exhibit the same properties as those naturally present in our skin. These lipids are therefore able to act as substitutes for your own lipids and thus help plump up our skin.

– Phytoceramides have the unique ability of being able to penetrate all the four layers of the skin and successfully lock in moisture deep in the skin.

– Phytoceramides act as a stimulant for collagen production which increases skin elasticity and plumps up the skin.

– They encourage the development of a protective barrier that protects against inflammations and infections, sun damage and dryness.

– They keep your skin hydrated by retaining moisture which in effect reduces wrinkles.

– Phytoceramides have also been found to have the ability to slow down the skin’s ageing process and even reverse already existing signs like crow’s feet from deep within the skin.

Where phytoceramides can be found?

Phytoceramides are found in many common foods such as eggs, soybeans and spinach, but only comprise 0.3–0.4 grams/day of the typical person’s diet.