1. The Skin And Phytoceramides - How They
Work Together

2. The outermost layer of mammalian skin is known as the
stratum corneum. It acts as a barrier and protects the inner
cellular structure from external stresses. In so doing, it helps
in keeping the skin protected from factors such as excessive
transcutaneous water loss. The cells of the outer layer which
are made up of ceramides and conrneocytes are what work
in accomplishing this very important function by creating a
barrier. Any disruption in this barrier through physical trauma
arising due to conditions such as eczema or simple aging will
compromise its functional ability.

3. The result of such compromise includes decreased skin
elasticity and increased susceptibility to infections as well as
increased water loss. All these factors speed up the
formation of fine lines and wrinkles at the corners of the eyes
and mouth in addition to creating a dull skin texture. They are
the signs that will easily tell the age of an individual. People
dread the formation of these cosmetic changes and many,
especially women have gone to great extents to work out a
solution to fighting the signs of aging.

4. The Ceramides Solution
The ceramides responsible for skin health are
produced naturally in the body. The amount decreases
with age. Plants contain protein compounds with the
same kind of structure; almost identical to what
humans have. Since they are plant derived, they are
referred to as Phytoceramides. Like the ceramides
found in the human body, the Phytoceramides aid in
creating a protective barrier within the epidermis.

5. Supplements containing ceramides are now readily in
the market and replace the components which are lost
through hydration effects and aging. These ceramides
come with a moisturizing effect, especially for the
supplements since they are carried right into the blood.
They therefore directly improve on the functionality of
ceramides and will give results which can be harder to
achieve with topical applications.

6. They have become important compounds for the overall
protection of the skin. They will work by establishing and
maintaining water retaining properties of the skin. As they
decrease with age, increased trans-epidermal water loss is
experienced leading to the skin changes. These plant-
derived ceramides will therefore work in the prevention of
moisture loss from the skin as a result of aging and trauma.
They are also believed to inhibit Melanogenesis, the process
through which the cells produce skin-coloring pigments,
giving the skin an even tone and preventing formation of age
spots. It is helpful when it comes to hyper pigmentation,
causing age spots and discolorations of the skin.

7. The plant-based ceramides when consumed in supplement
form are first digested and then transported to the stratum
through the blood. As a result, the plant-based ceramides
circulate easily and effectively, thus giving significant
effects, especially in the promotion of the important water
barrier in skin layers. They end up maintaining a functional
barrier that will keep the skin well-protected from all harm.
When going for the Phytoceramides however, it is important
to ensure that you are settling for a product that is 100%
natural and with the potential of fetching you the best
results without exposing you to any more harm.

8. Resources:
http://phytoceramidescanada.blogspot.ca/
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Skin-And-Phytoceramides---
How-They-Work-Together&id=8529443