PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a ceramide production promoter and humectant for promoting the production of ceramide which is included in trace amounts in the whole organism but occupies the half or more of lipid components in the horny layer, the outermost layer of the skin, and plays an important role in moisture retention and barrier mechanisms of the skin, in which the ceramide is thought to be useful for prevention and improvement of dry skin, rough skin, atopic dermatitis, senile xerosis, psoriasis or the like.SOLUTION: The ceramide production promoter and humectant include an extract of Picea obovata as an active ingredient.
