Phytoceramides are plant-derived molecules that allow you to replace lost ceramides, from the inside out, giving structure back to skin, which lets you fill in wrinkles and fine lines. Ceramides are lipids, fats that occur naturally throughout the body, including the scalp, bones and skin. For an analogy, think of a brick wall. The bricks are held together by mortar. Ceramides are like the ‘mortar’ that holds your skin together. Ceramides make up close to 40% of your skin’s structure, you lose them with age, which explains much of the wrinkles, sun damage and visible skin aging that people experience as they grow older.
The FDA has recently approved Phytoceramides as a dietary supplement. The recent clinical study that has the whole industry buzzing was conducted at Osaka City University to evaluate the effects of Phytoceramides on 33 patients with a tendency toward dry and rough skin. The 33 patients were comprised of 6 men and 27 women. This study was performed over 6 weeks in the form of soft gel capsules taken daily. The study concludes that if taken daily Phytoceramides moisturize the skin by its hydration capability and achieve wrinkle prevention by its elsastase suppression and collagen production. Ceramides will also protect the skin from harmful effects such as pollution, sunshine, and stress. No side effects where reported during the study
A few things to look for when choosing a phytoceramide supplement
Dosage – As Dr. Oz says, phytoceramides at roughly 350mg per serving should be enough to produce soft, smooth skin in about 4 weeks.
A 60 Day Guarantee – If the company offers phytoceramides with a guarantee, that’s a sign they stand by the product and it offers peace of mind.
A Quality Name – Yes, there are bandwagon jumpers with phytoceramides. Look for a product offered by a label that’s been around for at least 5 years and that has a good reputation.
Skin-Friendly Vitamins – Some phytoceramide products are formulated with skin-friendly vitamins like vitamins A and C. These are good to have, because you may see even better results.
Miracle Phytoceramides have recently found fame and a celebrity-following after they were championed by Dr. Oz on his TV show. Dr. Oz and some of the other skincare experts on the show were seen to tell viewers that Miracle Phytoceramides offer users a natural alternative to a facelift, and that they are a great way for regular people to “fake a facelift” without having to go under the knife. In addition to the expertise of Dr. Oz, there are plenty of other studies which suggest that there are real, scientific benefits to regularly using phytoceramide supplements. A study of 51 women, which was carried out by a team from France, discovered that those who were treated with Miracle Phytoceramides showed a significant increase in levels of skin hydration after using these products for 3 months. This meant that their skin looked and felt less dry than it had done before they began the course of phytoceramide treatment.
One should keep in mind that this supplement might not suit everyone as certain people can be allergic to this product and it is advisable that one checks with a doctor before taking this supplement.
