Phytoceramides

Phytoceramides are plant-based ceramide, a naturally occurring fat that makes up half of the skin’s outer layer. Environmental factors, ageing, and skin conditions like eczema can reduce the level of ceramides in your skin.

Phytoceramides are the latest in a long list of skincare ingredients touted as the secret to smooth, fresh-looking skin. But, while they can certainly help reduce dryness, soothe irritation, and possibly even reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, phytoceramides aren’t quite as miraculous as they’re rumoured to be.

Ceramides are a type of naturally occurring, long-chain fatty acid (i.e., fat or lipid) that makes up about 50 per cent of the skin’s outer layer (the epidermis). Since “Phyto” means plant, phytoceramides are just ceramides from plants. Phytoceramides refer to plant-derived ceramides, as opposed to synthetic or animal-derived ceramides, used to replenish depleted natural skin ceramides. Phytoceramides have recently gained popularity as a skincare ingredient due to their supposed anti-ageing powers. However, low levels of ceramides allow moisture to escape the skin, letting in irritants, air pollution, and even infectious agents.

When things like irritants enter the skin, the “immune system can ‘see’ them and develop a contact irritation or skin allergy That can lead to dry, rough, flaky, and inflamed skin, especially in people with active eczema. “Ceramides act as the ‘grout’ between the ’tile-like’ upper [skin] cells to create a tight seal… to hold in hydration. Phytoceramides come in topical creams or supplements, and they’re also found in certain foods. Foods that contain phytoceramides include:

• soybeans

• millet

• wheat

• rice

• spinach

• sweet potatoes

• potatoes

• corn

Raw Cacao – A Superfood for the Skin & Body

Cacao (pronounced ka-cow) is a bean from the Theobroma cacao tree and has been used, dating back 4,000 years, by the ancient Mayan tribe for its health benefits and in spiritual ceremonies. Raw cacao is the healthiest form and contains many benefits for the skin and body. Raw cacao powder starts as raw whole beans carefully collected from the cacao fruit. The beans are washed, dried, husked and then processed into smaller pieces. These pieces are then cold-pressed, separating the raw cacao butter (which we use in our Toe & Heel Butter). The remaining cacao bean is then milled into a fine raw cacao powder, ready to be used. Extremely high in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from oxidation and ageing. Raw cacao contains more than 20x the number of antioxidants in blueberries (ORAC value score).

A potent anti-inflammatory, it soothes redness and blemishes, improving the skin’s complexion. More calcium than cow’s milk. Improves circulation and hydration in the skin. Circulation stimulates new blood flow to the skin’s surface, keeping it healthy and glowing. One of the most potent sources of polyphenols. Supports healthy levels of cholesterol and reduces inflammation. It is excellent for dry and mature skin but nourishing and beneficial for all skin types. With high amounts of iron and magnesium, cacao is the richest food source of these nutrients.

Check this link for more skin care products that are earthed and chemical-free. (link to be given)

DO WE EVEN NEED A CREAM OR A SERUM OR BOTH ?

Well, many people ask me what is difference between the two or if there is even any. Well …there is and a BIG one!

The biggest difference between a serum and a cream is the formulation and what they are meant for – the Creams are meant to treat the skin type whereas serums are to treat the skin concern.

Creams, lotions and emulsion basically composed of WATER +FATS +ACTIVE INGREDIENTS ( and a bunch of others ingredients that most of the times are REALLY bad for your skin and heath but let’s leave for another blog )dispersed in a solution . The are made of bigger molecules compare to serums and their the main goal of creams is to replenish the skin barrier to protect the outer layer of the skin, which is the upper layer of the epidermis.