Ceramosides Wheat Seed Oil Extract
Also known as: Wheat phytoceramides, Wheat extract oil (WEO), Wheat extract powder (WEP), CERAMOSIDES™, Ceramides from Wheat Seed Oil Extract
Overview
Ceramides are lipid molecules that play a critical role in maintaining skin hydration and barrier function. Derived from the wheat seed oil of _Triticum aestivum_ or _Triticum vulgare_, these ceramides constitute 35-40% of the intercellular lipid composition in the skin. Used primarily in dietary supplements, they support skin and hair health, acting as a natural source of hydration and protection against environmental factors. Although numerous clinical trials have explored the effectiveness of wheat-derived ceramides, there is currently no systematic review or meta-analysis concentrating solely on this specific extract. Available studies, including high-quality randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, suggest a solid foundation of evidence for their beneficial effects on skin moisture and elasticity.
Benefits
Ceramides from wheat seed oil exhibit several evidence-based benefits: - **Skin Hydration**: A significant increase in hydration was observed in a study with 51 women, indicating robust hydration effects after 3 months of 350 mg daily intake (P < 0.001). - **Skin Elasticity and Wrinkles**: Improvements in skin elasticity and wrinkle reduction were noted within 2 weeks of using CERAMOSIDES™. - **Hair Health**: Two studies found that supplementation stimulated hair growth and strength, with observable effects after 2 months of treatment. - **Protective Effects**: In vitro studies showed ceramides help preserve collagen and elastin while combating oxidative stress. Women with dry skin and menopausal women may particularly benefit from supplementation. Evidence indicates clinically significant improvements, with skin hydration effects appearing within 2 weeks to 3 months.
How it works
Ceramides function primarily in enhancing skin barrier integrity by promoting intercellular cohesion of skin cells, which contributes to moisture retention. They help maintain the lipid matrix that protects against water loss while encapsulating nutrients necessary for healthy skin. Interaction with collagen and elastic fibers supports the skin's structure, while anti-collagenase and anti-elastase pathways combat the breakdown of these vital proteins, further enhancing skin health.
Side effects
Ceramides derived from wheat germ oil are generally regarded as safe based on available studies, which have indicated no significant toxicity even at elevated doses. Common side effects (greater than 5%) have not been reported, and uncommon or rare adverse effects (<1%) are not documented. However, individuals allergic to wheat should avoid these supplements as they can provoke allergic reactions. As a precaution, it is advisable for people with wheat allergies to consult healthcare providers before use to avoid potential complications based on their health history.
Dosage
The recommended minimum effective dose for wheat-derived ceramides is around 30 mg daily for powder forms and 70 mg for oil forms. Clinical studies have utilized doses of up to 350 mg daily for wheat extract oil. Although safety assessments suggest tolerability at very high doses, no formal maximum safe human dosage is specified. Timing for supplementation is not strictly defined, so it can be taken according to user preference. Individuals should account for absorption factors as reported efficacy is reliant on oral administration.
FAQs
Is it safe for those with wheat allergies?
No, individuals with wheat allergies should avoid these products due to potential allergic reactions.
When is the best time to take it?
There's no specific timing recommended; it can be taken at any time of the day.
How soon can results be expected?
Improvements in skin hydration and hair health can be observed within 2 weeks to 3 months of regular use.
Are there any significant side effects?
No significant side effects have been reported when used as directed.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20646083/ – This study examined the moisturizing effects of a wheat extract food supplement in women with dry skin, demonstrating significant hydration improvements after three months of 350 mg daily supplementation, indicating high-quality research in the area.
- https://www.seppic.com/en-us/ceramosides – This resource outlines the efficacy of CERAMOSIDES™ in improving skin hydration, elasticity, and reducing wrinkles, based on various clinical studies, affirming its application in skin and hair health.
- https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/wheat122020FR.pdf – The report discusses safety assessments of wheat-derived ceramides, indicating no adverse events in human studies and establishing their safety profile in nutraceutical applications.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00600.x – This study highlighted the efficacy of wheat glucosylceramides in enhancing skin hydration and elasticity while reducing age-related symptoms, supporting the functional benefits of ceramide supplementation.