The Science of Ceramosides
In the world of beauty, many routines feel fragmented. You might have separate products for skin, hair and nails that promise targeted results, but leave you juggling multiple bottles. Yet emerging research shows that beauty can be approached holistically.
One ingredient that’s gaining traction in this area is Ceramosides, a plant-derived version of ceramides that offers benefits across skin, hair, and nails.
In this guide, we’ll talk through what they are and how they work.
What Are Ceramides and Ceramosides?
Ceramides are naturally occurring waxy lipids that make up about 30–40% of the “mortar” between skin cells, essential for maintaining the skin’s barrier, locking in moisture, and shielding against environmental stress¹. As we age, our ceramide levels decline, often resulting in dryness, increased sensitivity, and visible lines.
Ceramosides are plant-derived ceramides – commonly sourced from wheat or rice – that closely resemble our natural skin ceramides. Their structure allows them to replenish skin ceramide levels effectively, supporting barrier repair and helping to reduce tran¬sepider¬mal water loss (TEWL), the moisture that evaporates from the skin’s surface. You’ll often Ceramosides in capsule form.
The Multifaceted Benefits of Ceramosides
Skin Hydration and Elasticity
Clinical studies on oral supplementation with wheat-based ceramides (often combined in a wheat polar lipid complex) have demonstrated significant improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and smoothness, while reducing TEWL, roughness, and wrinkle visibility over 60 days of use².
In a separate study using rice ceramides, participants saw enhanced skin barrier function, reduced wrinkle severity, and improved hydration and elasticity—alongside better pigmentation and reduced TEWL¹.
Reduction in Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Well-hydrated skin helps maintain structural integrity, which can visibly diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The studies above reinforce that ceramide supplementation plays a tangible role in supporting youthful skin texture.
Hair Strength and Shine
Ceramosides may also benefit hair. A clinical study using CERAMOSIDES™ (a wheat-derived phytoceramide complex) revealed measurable improvements in hair growth and strength. After three months, participants experienced increased hair length, reduced hair loss, improved scalp sebum balance, and enhanced hair elasticity³.
Further, a wheat polar lipid complex was shown to reduce hair shedding and support regrowth in women experiencing acute telogen effluvium – an issue characterised by sudden hair shedding – after just 56 days of supplementation⁴.
Nail Health
While formal studies on nails are limited, ceramides’ known role in structural lipids and barrier integrity suggests they may help strengthen nails and reduce brittleness when used consistently.
Complementary Ingredients for Enhanced Results
For even broader benefits, Ceramosides pair well with other key nutrients:
- Biotin supports keratin production, strengthening hair, skin, and nails.
- Selenium & Zinc offer antioxidant protection to help hair and skin cells resist oxidative stress.
- Vitamins D, A, C, & E contribute variously to collagen synthesis, photoprotection, cell turnover, and immune support.
Incorporating Ceramosides into Your Beauty Regimen
Ceramosides are available in both topical and oral forms. Here’s how they might fit into your routine:
- Topical Ceramoside Products. Look for creams or serums featuring ceramides alongside humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These help reinforce the skin’s barrier while adding immediate hydration.
- Oral Supplementation. Wheat or rice-derived ceramide capsules and supplements can work from the inside out. Typical protocols use 30–70 mg per day of Ceramosides™, with clinical studies showing skin and hair benefits within 2–3 months².
A Promising Ingredient for Holistic Beauty
Ceramosides offer a compelling, science-supported approach to holistic beauty. Whether applied topically or taken as a supplement, they help reinforce skin barrier function, improve hydration and elasticity, soften lines, and even support hair strength and growth.
We use them in two of our products:
- Aurelia Hair Perfection: This supplement combines Ceramosides with our patent-pending ETERNACELL™ blend, to promote stronger, shinier, and denser-looking hair. It nourishes from within to enhance hair's natural resilience and vitality.
- Aurelia 3-in-1 Perfection: This comprehensive formula blends Ceramosides with Ovoderm® and ETERNACELL™ to support the health and beauty of hair, skin, and nails. It's a holistic approach to radiance, working at the cellular level for lasting results.
