Essential Fatty Acids for Skin Health

You may not think about it often, but your skin is one of the most essential parts of your body. It's what protects you from the environment and keeps you looking young and healthy. That's why it's so important to take care of your skin, not just with the products you’re putting on it, but also what you’re putting inside your body. Essential fatty acids are important for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy, making it less prone to wrinkles, dryness, and other problems. You can get these fatty acids from food sources, or you can take supplements if you're not getting enough from your diet. Here's an overview of how essential fatty acids can benefit your skin health.

What are essential fatty acids?

EFAs, or essential fatty acids, are a type of fat that is necessary for human health. They’re called ‘essential’, because the body cannot produce them on its own and therefore they must be obtained through diet or supplementation.

Types of EFAs - which ones are best for your skin

There are two main types of EFAs: omega-3 and omega-6. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil, flaxseed oil, and chia seed oil, while omega-6 fatty acids are found in vegetable oils such as corn oil and soybean oil. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are important for human health, but they have different effects on the body. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, while omega-6 fatty acids have pro-inflammatory properties.

There are also other types of essential fatty acids, such as Omega-7 and Omega-9, which also deliver vital nutrients to your skin such as vitamin A, B, C, D, E, K and have anti-inflammatory effects.

Why are essential fatty acids important for skin health?

Fatty acids are a type of lipid which are essential for maintaining the integrity of cell membranes in the outermost layer of your skin. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are important for keeping your skin barrier moisturised. Without enough essential fatty acids, the skin can become dry, flaky, and prone to irritation.

As the largest organ in the human body, the skin plays a vital role in protecting you against bacteria, germs and infections. It’s therefore highly important that your skin is kept properly hydrated, to maintain the integrity of this protective skin barrier.

EFAs also help to reduce inflammation, which can lead to a variety of skin problems, and play a role in cell regeneration - keeping skin looking young and radiant. 

The best sources of EFAs

Essential fatty acids can be found in a variety of food sources. The best sources of EFAs include oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines. However, if you’re not a big fish eater, or you’re vegan or vegetarian, you can still get your essential fatty acid fix from nuts and seeds, such as flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, walnuts, hazelnuts and hemp seeds. However, not all sources of essential fatty acids are equal, and it can sometimes be difficult to obtain the recommended daily intake of EFAs from food sources alone. That’s why we always suggest DMK’S Ultra EFA as a quality, plant-based essential fatty acid supplement that’s great for your skin! With Omega’s 3, 6, 7 and 9, and over 190 nutrients, you’re getting a power punch of vitamins, minerals and amino acids that support your skin's structural integrity. We always suggest that if you’re undergoing advanced skin treatments, that you invest in a quality EFA like DMK’s Ultra EFA to ensure that your skin is in prime condition, and well hydrated, for maximum results from your treatment.

FAQs about EFAs and skin health

How much Omega 3 do you need?

The answer depends on a few factors, including your age, weight, and activity level. The recommended daily intake of EFAs varies depending on age and gender, but most adults need between 1 and 3 grams per day. However, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you may need more. 

Will omega 3 help dry skin?

If you're struggling with dry or inflamed skin, an omega 3 supplement may help! Many people suffering from dry skin turn to lotions and creams in an attempt to moisturise their skin, but these can sometimes only provide temporary relief, and not get to the core of the skin’s hydration issues. However, if you’re suffering from recurring dry skin, you may actually have a deficiency in either omega-3’s or omega-6’s, as this can cause the skin to feel rough, scaly and even contribute to dermatitis. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to moisturise the skin and although they may not be a cure for your dry skin, they can help to improve these conditions.

Is omega 3 good for acne?

One of the main functions of essential fatty acids, particularly omega 3’s and 9’s,  is to help reduce inflammation, which can trigger or worsen acne breakouts. They do this by helping to regulate the production of sebum, the oily substance that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. In addition, essential fatty acids help to keep the skin moisturised and protect it from environmental damage. All of these factors can contribute to healthier skin and a reduction in acne flare-ups. 

What else are EFAs good for?

EFAs are important for a variety of functions in the body, including cell growth, hormone production, and brain function. They can also help to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels. Therefore, including a variety of food sources rich in EFAs in your diet is essential for good health.

Essential fatty acids are important for skin health because they help keep the skin barrier strong and protect it from environmental stressors. They also play a role in maintaining the correct level of hydration and oil production, which helps keep the skin looking smooth and healthy. If you’re looking to improve your skin health, or are suffering from dry, irritated or acne-prone skin, make sure you’re including essential fatty acids in your diet. Book a skin analysis with our team of expert skin clinicians today,