Home Ingredients ceratiq® (Wheat-Derived Phytoceramides — PLT Health)
Hair, Skin & Nails

ceratiq® (Wheat-Derived Phytoceramides — PLT Health)

Triticum aestivum
Evidence Level
Strong
3 Clinical Trials
7 Documented Benefits
4/5 Evidence Score

ceratiq® is PLT Health Solutions' patented, clinically-studied phytoceramide ingredient — derived from specially cultivated, sustainably harvested, non-GMO wheat grain grown in France and Europe. Phytoceramides are plant-derived lipids structurally similar to skin's natural ceramides (which comprise 35-40% of the binding matrix maintaining skin moisture). Ceramide levels naturally decline with age. NutraIngredients Ingredient of the Year Award winner for Healthy Aging. South Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety approved for functional health food claims. Clinical doses: 200 mg/day (hydration) or 350 mg/day (wrinkle reduction).

Studied Dose 350 mg/day ceratiq (the dose used in the wrinkle reduction trial) or 200 mg/day (the dose used in the foundational hydration trial). Effects on skin hydration measurable in as little as 4 weeks; wrinkle reduction from 8 weeks.
Active Compound Wheat extract oil (WEO) containing phytoceramides — plant-derived lipids structurally similar to human skin ceramides. Sourced from specially cultivated, sustainably harvested, non-GMO wheat grain grown in France and Europe. Available in oil and water-soluble powder forms. Vegan-friendly.

Benefits

Visible wrinkle reduction — 88% response rate

In a double-blind placebo-controlled trial, subjects received either 350 mg of ceratiq oil or placebo daily for 12 weeks. In the ceratiq group, wrinkles were significantly and visibly reduced from 8 weeks onward (p<0.001) vs placebo. Visible wrinkle reduction was seen in nearly every (88%) woman in the clinical trial. Studies show ceratiq reduces wrinkle visibility three times better than placebo.

Supported by Trial 1

Fast-acting skin hydration (4 weeks)

ceratiq has been shown in clinical trials to improve skin hydration in as little as 4 weeks. The hydration effect is fast-acting compared to many beauty-from-within ingredients that require 8-12 weeks. Phytoceramides supplement the necessary ceramides used to rebuild the skin barrier, allowing skin to retain more moisture.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 3

Improved skin elasticity and suppleness

Beyond hydration, ceratiq supports improved skin elasticity, suppleness, and radiance — the qualities associated with youthful skin appearance. Mechanism involves restoring the skin's lipid matrix that holds moisture and supports structural integrity. Effects extend to face and body skin, not just facial cosmetic outcomes.

Supported by Trial 3, Trial 1

Subjective skin improvement — 95% response

In one study, 95% of participants taking 200 mg of ceratiq daily reported dramatic improvement in the look and feel of their skin, with results verified by skin hydration measurements. The high subjective response rate combined with objective hydration verification supports ceratiq's positioning as one of the more consumer-relevant beauty-from-within ingredients.

Supported by Trial 2

UVB photoaging protection (preclinical)

Animal and cell culture studies demonstrate wheat extract oil (the ceratiq active) attenuates UVB-induced photoaging via collagen synthesis support in human keratinocytes and hairless mice. The mechanism extends beyond hydration to potentially protective effects against environmental skin damage — though clinical translation specifically for UV protection remains preliminary.

Supported by Trial 3

Vegan, non-GMO source vs animal-derived ceramides

Phytoceramides offer a vegan-friendly alternative to animal-derived ceramides for those seeking plant-based skin care nutrition. The ceramides that give younger skin its supple appearance are structurally identical between wheat and human sources. Sustainable non-GMO French/European wheat sourcing supports both consumer and supply chain ethics.

Supported by Trial 2, Trial 3

NutraIngredients Award + South Korea regulatory approval

ceratiq won the NutraIngredients Ingredient of the Year Award in the Healthy Aging category — independent industry validation. South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety granted regulatory approval for sale and beauty health claims — a meaningful milestone given Korea's rigorous beauty-supplement regulatory environment. Distinguishes ceratiq from less-validated phytoceramide products.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Mechanism of action

1

Ceramide replacement therapy

Ceramides comprise 35-40% of the binding matrix that maintains skin moisture balance and protects skin surface. Endogenous ceramide levels naturally decline with age, contributing to dry skin, wrinkles, and loss of barrier function. Oral phytoceramide supplementation restores the lipid matrix from within — supplementing what age has depleted.

2

Skin barrier reconstruction

Phytoceramides incorporate into the stratum corneum lipid matrix, rebuilding the brick-and-mortar barrier structure that holds water in skin. The mechanism explains the fast-acting hydration effect — ceramide-deficient skin loses water faster; replenishing ceramides immediately improves water retention. Sustainable hydration improves skin appearance and function.

3

Collagen synthesis support (preclinical)

Wheat extract oil supports collagen synthesis in keratinocytes (per preclinical mouse and cell studies). Collagen production declines with age, contributing to wrinkle formation. Supporting collagen synthesis may explain the wrinkle reduction effects documented in clinical trials beyond pure hydration mechanism.

4

Lipid matrix repair

Aging skin loses both ceramide lipids and the structural organization of the lipid matrix. ceratiq's phytoceramides not only replace lost ceramides but may support reorganization of the disrupted lipid structures. The combined effect of replacement plus structural support explains the visible appearance improvements beyond simple moisturization.

Clinical trials

1
ceratiq for Wrinkle Reduction — 350 mg Clinical Trial

Double-blind placebo-controlled trial evaluating efficacy of ceratiq on skin hydration and wrinkle reduction at 350 mg/day for 12 weeks. Outcomes included clinical wrinkle assessment and skin hydration measurements. by Boisnic et al.

Adult women with visible signs of skin aging. 12-week intervention.

Wrinkles were significantly and visibly reduced from 8 weeks onward (p<0.001) vs placebo. Visible wrinkle reduction observed in 88% of women in the trial. Skin hydration was significantly increased compared to placebo. Established 350 mg/day as the effective dose for wrinkle reduction applications. Foundation for the South Korean regulatory approval.

2
ceratiq Skin Hydration Clinical Trial — 200 mg Dose

Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of ceratiq at 200 mg/day for skin hydration in women. Published in a peer-reviewed journal as 'The moisturizing effect of a wheat extract food supplement on women's skin.' Demonstrated efficacy at the lower 200 mg dose for hydration applications.

Adult women experiencing dry skin or seeking skin hydration support. Multi-week intervention.

95% of participants taking 200 mg of ceratiq daily reported dramatic improvement in the look and feel of their skin, with results verified by objective skin hydration measurements. The 200 mg dose supports hydration applications; the 350 mg dose adds wrinkle reduction. Both doses are within the practical supplement dosing range.

3
Wheat Extract Oil UVB Photoaging — Preclinical Studies

Preclinical studies in human keratinocytes and hairless mice evaluating wheat extract oil's effects on UVB-induced photoaging. Mechanistic foundation extending beyond hydration to potential environmental skin damage protection. Presented at the American Society for Nutrition (ASN) as a poster.

Not applicable — cell culture (human keratinocytes) and animal (hairless mice) studies.

Wheat extract oil (the ceratiq active) attenuated UVB-induced photoaging via collagen synthesis support in both human keratinocytes and hairless mice. The collagen synthesis effect provides mechanism for the wrinkle reduction observed clinically beyond simple hydration. Translation to clinical UV protection applications remains preliminary and requires human clinical trials.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

Generally well-tolerated across the clinical trials at 200-350 mg/day.
Mild GI effects rare.
Wheat-derived — not suitable for celiac disease or wheat allergy. Phytoceramides are extracted to be gluten-free in finished products, but verify gluten-free certification for celiac use.
Long-term safety supported by extensive use in EU and Asian markets and the NutraIngredients Award recognition.
Pregnancy and lactation: dietary wheat is safe; supplemental phytoceramide concentrations not specifically studied — consult clinician.
Suitable for vegans (plant-derived alternative to animal-source ceramides).

Important Drug interactions

No known clinically significant drug interactions documented in clinical trials.
Wheat allergy — avoid if known wheat or gluten allergy / celiac disease (verify gluten-free certification for celiac use).
Topical retinoids and exfoliants — phytoceramides complement these topical interventions; no negative interaction expected.
Other beauty-from-within ingredients (collagen, hyaluronic acid) — combine well; complementary mechanisms.
Pregnancy and lactation: consult clinician for supplemental doses.
No significant interactions with common medications based on available data.

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Frequently asked questions about ceratiq® (Wheat-Derived Phytoceramides — PLT Health)

What is ceratiq?

ceratiq® is PLT Health Solutions' patented, clinically-studied phytoceramide ingredient — derived from specially cultivated, sustainably harvested, non-GMO wheat grain grown in France and Europe.

What is ceratiq used for?

ceratiq is researched primarily for Hair, Skin & Nails. In a double-blind placebo-controlled trial, subjects received either 350 mg of ceratiq oil or placebo daily for 12 weeks. In the ceratiq group, wrinkles were significantly and visibly reduced from 8 weeks onward (p<0.001) vs placebo.

What is the recommended dosage of ceratiq?

The clinically studied dose is 350 mg/day ceratiq (the dose used in the wrinkle reduction trial) or 200 mg/day (the dose used in the foundational hydration trial). Effects on skin hydration measurable in as little as 4 weeks; wrinkle reduction from 8 weeks. Always follow the product label and check with a healthcare provider for personal advice.

Is ceratiq safe, and does it have side effects?

For most healthy adults, ceratiq is well tolerated at studied doses. Reported effects can include: Generally well-tolerated across the clinical trials at 200-350 mg/day. Mild GI effects rare. It may also interact with some medications. ceratiq is not right for everyone, so check with a healthcare provider first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medication.

Does ceratiq interact with any medications?

Possible interactions include: No known clinically significant drug interactions documented in clinical trials. Wheat allergy — avoid if known wheat or gluten allergy / celiac disease (verify gluten-free certification for celiac use). If you take prescription medication, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using it.

How strong is the scientific evidence for ceratiq?

NutraSmarts rates the evidence for ceratiq as Strong (4 out of 5). It is backed by 3 clinical trials and 3 cited references summarized on this page. A higher rating reflects more, larger, and better-designed human studies.

References(3 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Guillou S, Ghabri S, Jannot C, Gaillard E, Lamour I, Boisnic S. The moisturizing effect of a wheat extract food supplement on women's skin: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33(2):138-43. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00600.x.PubMedUsed to support: Small industry-funded double-blind RCT in 51 women with dry skin found 350 mg/day oral wheat-extract oil significantly improved corneometry skin hydration versus placebo over 3 months, backing the oral wheat-ceramide hydration claim.
  2. Boisnic S, Keophiphath M, Serandour AL, Branchet MC, Le Breton S, Lamour I, et al. Polar lipids from wheat extract oil improve skin damages induced by aging: Evidence from a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial in women and an ex vivo study on human skin explant. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2019;18(6):2027-2036. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12967.PubMedUsed to support: Small industry-funded double-blind RCT (64 women aged 45-60) reported oral wheat-extract-oil polar lipids significantly improved facial corneometry hydration, roughness and wrinkle scores versus placebo over 12 weeks, supporting the hydration/barrier claim though authors are tied to the manufacturer.
  3. Kern C, Dudonne S, Garcia C. Dietary supplementation with a wheat polar lipid complex improves skin conditions in women with dry skin and mild-to-moderate skin aging. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024;23(4):1320-1330. doi: 10.1111/jocd.16130.PubMedUsed to support: Small industry-funded (Robertet, the ceratiq maker) double-blind RCT in women with dry skin found an oral wheat polar lipid complex significantly increased arm/leg corneometry hydration versus placebo over 84 days, directly supporting the ceratiq hydration/barrier claim but with a clear conflict of interest.