Omega-3s are classed as essential because even though the body is incapable of producing these nutrients naturally, every cell in your body relies on them to stay in good condition and flourish.

As all your cells are dependent on Omega-3s, especially DHA, so are ALL of the systems and functions of your body, including ALL of your organs. And the organ that will show the most visible signs of Omega-3 deficiency is the skin, the largest organ of all.

Why are they good for the skin?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of lipid which are necessary for maintaining the integrity of cell membranes in the outermost layer of your skin. They are important for keeping your skin barrier moisturised, strong and healthy, playing a valuable role in establishing the correct level of hydration and oil production – in the end, delivering moister, softer, subtler and more wrinkle-free skin.

Omega-3 nourishment is the key to plumper, younger looking skin. Without enough essential fatty acids, in particular Omega-3 DHA, the skin can become dry, flaky, and prone to irritation.

The skin needs Omega-3 DHA to protect it from environmental stressors. Mainly due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, Omega-3 DHA is used to combat oxidative stress and harmful free radicals from damaging skin cells. Omega- 3 fatty acids work to calm inflammation, reduce acne, support wound healing and reduce UV damage

Omega-3 DHA has proven to be beneficial for many unfavourable skin conditions

Acne

Essential fatty acids are responsible for regulating the production of sebum, the oily substance that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. They also calm inflammation, which is a huge factor in acne conditions, that can trigger or worsen acne breakouts. Furthermore, they form part of the acid mantle which is the skin’s protective barrier against microbes and environmental damage.

Aging Skin

With age, skin function is naturally altered: skin is less hydrated, less supple and more fragile. In fact, skin cell regeneration slows down, and the activity of the sebaceous and sweat glands decreases. Omega-3s influence the cell’s ability to hold water and provide a healthy barrier to withstand negative environmental factors that accelerate the skin aging process.

Slapping on beauty products may cover up the signs of aging, but doing this will not prevent inevitable deterioration caused by poorly nourished cells. Feeding the skin adequately from the inside with Omega-3 DHA can certainly delay the skin’s natural aging process and help to prevent wrinkles.

Dermatitis

Atopic Dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is accompanied by severe itching and recurring eczematous lesions. Scaling and increased water evaporation from the skin are two typical clinical signs of essential fatty acid
deficiency.

Because of its ability to help regulate hydration and anti-inflammatory properties, Omega-3 DHA supplementation has been proven to provide relief for dermatitis sufferers of various age groups – the very young included as it has shown to play a definitive role in preventing the development and reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis in newborns to children younger than 3 years.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is caused by a lack of moisture in the top layer of the skin, which is known as the stratum corneum. Apart from Omega-3 deficiency, this can be due to a number of influences including environmental factors such as air conditioning, low humidity, harsh soaps or cleansers, chlorinated water.

Omega-3 DHA is hydrating to dry skin and by improving skin barrier function when taken internally, will help seal in moisture and keep irritants out.

Eczema

A lack of Omega-3 DHA can be the main contributor to eczematic conditions because of the very role it plays in reducing inflammation, hydrating the cells and creating a protective barrier in the skins transdermal layer.

Numerous publications of clinical studies have shown children and adults with eczema who took a daily Omega-3 DHA (5.4 – 5.5 grams) supplement had a significant reduction in eczema symptoms compared to those who did not take the supplement.

Psoriasis

Omega-3s help psoriasis symptoms by reducing inflammation. When they enter the bloodstream, they lubricate the cells of the body. This lubrication can have a healing effect on cells that are particularly in need of it.

When a person has psoriasis, the immune system tells skin cells to turn over at an abnormally rapid rate. No one knows why this happens exactly. The result is redness, inflammation, and dry, scaly patches of skin that can cover almost any part of your body. The use of Omega-3s can make this inflammation more manageable and less irritating.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a skin condition that causes symptoms such as rashes and skin discoloration, usually on the nose and cheeks. It may also cause eye problems. The symptoms typically come and go, with many people reporting that certain factors, such as spending time in the sun or experiencing emotional stress, bring them on.

Eye irritation is a common symptom of rosacea. This is known as ocular rosacea and can include:

• dryness
• soreness
• itchiness
• redness
• watery eyes

As Omega-3 DHA is the major structural and metabolic polyunsaturated fatty acid of the retina, making up around 20% of its weight, it is not surprising that researchers have found that supplementation with this particular essential fatty acid consistently showed benefits for patients with ocular rosacea – most significantly, improving dry eye symptoms.

If you’re looking to improve your skin health, or are suffering from dry, irritated or acne-prone skin, adding Omega-3 DHA to your diet is the easiest most important action you can take.

For healthy skin, Omega-3 DHA is essential.