5 Incredible Skin Health Benefits of Omega-3 You Should Know
Following a healthy skincare regimen throughout the year is the best way to support your body’s skin for the long haul. But your diet also plays a hugely important role! Case in point: The omega-3 benefits for skin simply can’t be ignored.
New research suggests a balanced gut microbiome can play a pivotal role in determining how skin behaves. For instance, omega-3s (the fatty acids found in fish oil and other seafood) can help maintain gut health and give skin a soothed, glowing appearance. If you’re not getting enough omega-3s in your diet, it’s important to understand what you may be missing out on — and how to turn the situation around!
Here are the major benefits of Omega-3 for your skin health:
1. Helps Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a top cause of skin aging and can manifest itself in the form of redness, swelling, or irritation. Omega-3s have potent anti-inflammatory features that can help to keep your skin looking its best.
A study published in the journal Nutrients found that omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for both reducing inflammation and maintaining skin integrity. In the study, participants took either a placebo or an omega-3 supplement for 12 weeks. At the end of the study period, those who had taken the omega-3 supplements showed significantly lower levels of inflammation than those who had taken the placebo.
2. Reduces the Risk of Skin Cancer
Excessive sun exposure is one of the leading causes of skin cancer. But there’s some good news: according to a 2012 study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, omega-3s may help protect against ultraviolet (UV) damage and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
In the study, researchers found that omega-3s helped reduce inflammation and cell death caused by UV radiation. They also discovered that the fatty acids could help repair DNA damage caused by UV rays.
3. Delays Skin Aging
Omega-3s are a key ingredient in many anti-aging products, and for good reason! These fatty acids can help delay signs of aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
A 2014 study published in the journal PLoS One found that omega-3s may help protect skin cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a process that occurs when there’s an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. This imbalance can lead to cell damage and premature aging.
4. Helps Manage Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that can be both painful and unsightly. Omega-3s have been shown to help manage acne by reducing inflammation and keeping skin cells healthy.
A 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that omega-3s helped reduce inflammation and sebaceous glands’ size in participants with acne. The sebaceous glands are responsible for producing sebum, an oily substance that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
5. Can Help Fight Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes patches of thick, scaly skin to form. It can be painful and uncomfortable, and it can also lead to embarrassment and low self-esteem.
Omega-3s have been shown to help reduce the symptoms of psoriasis by reducing inflammation and keeping skin cells healthy. A 2012 study published in the journal Nutrients found that omega-3 supplements helped improve the symptoms of psoriasis in participants.
Conclusion
Omega-3s are essential for maintaining healthy skin. These fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation, delay the signs of aging, and fight chronic skin conditions like acne and psoriasis. If you’re not getting enough omega-3s in your diet, consider supplementing with a high-quality fish oil supplement.
If you are interested in learning more about fish oil supplements for your skin, you can read our resources at Rhythmic Health. We take you on a journey about health and how you can change your life by finding your rhythm. Check our other resources to learn more.
