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Who doesn't want youthful vibrant skin? Thanks to recent discoveries in natural skin care:

• improved ways of obtaining new botanical, anti-aging ingredients; and
• the development of skin care products that can bring those ingredients to you

How Important are Ceramides?

Ceramides are a natural part of the cell membrane in the outermost layer of the epidermis. They are critical in helping the skin to maintain its moisture-binding and protective barrier functions. Since ceramides make up 40% of the lipid (oily) component of the intercellular cement which binds epidermal skin cells together, they play a key role in maintaining the moisture level and firmness of the skin.

A chronic decline of the ceramide concentration in the skin's intercellular cement has been demonstrated to be part of the skin aging process, as it allows penetration of damaging environmental elements and results in transepidermal evaporation of moisture.

 
What is a Ceramide's Function?

Intercellular cement in the skin performs the same function as mortar between the bricks in a wall. As the wall ages, the mortar becomes porous and cracks. Ceramide is the substance in the skin which prevents this from happening to the intercellular cement.

The amount of ceramides in the epidermis proportionately influences the skin's dryness - fewer ceramides result in drier skin and more crepey wrinkles. Applying cermides to your skin results in increased moisture retention in the epidermis.

Ceramides are also excellent restorative care for skin that has been abraded or over-exposed to the elements. Damage caused by mechanical rubbing, wind, burning, sunburn, or chemical peeling shows faster recovery and moisture replenishment with regular ceramide application.

What Development Improves the Quality of Ceramide Care?

Previously ceramides were chemically synthesized or derived from animals and therefore were not acceptble in the health food/natural products market. Botanically-based ceramides were unstable. Now, however, they can be obtained from biological fermentation so that new benefits can be enjoyed in good health.

This manufacturing process is lengthy and expensive. Skincare products incorporating ceramides must have specific delivery systems and formulations to deliver maximum impact. Such delivery systems include high quality plant oils, jojoba and macadamia nut oils are synergistic, that enable the ceramide to be activated at the proper place in the skin. This is necessary to guarantee penetration beneath the surface.

Independent university testing on the effects of botanical ceramide use has demonstrated:

• an increase in how quickly skin cells regenerate;
• improved moisture content;
• a noticeable improvement in skin firmness;
• a significant increase in protection from free radicals;