THE SKIN BENEFITS OF OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS

Like so many of Mother Nature’s powerhouse nutrients, omega-3 fatty acids don’t just target one part of your body, but rather work their magic from head to toe. Foods that are rich in these fats, like salmon, flaxseed and walnuts, also play an important role in maintaining healthy skin. In fact, some of the same properties in omega-3s that help lower your risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s and other conditions ensure skin looks and functions its best.

Let’s take a closer look at the beauty benefits of these good fats. When you apply skincare infused's with omega-3s…

…THEY PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN. Omega-3 fatty acids are powerful anti-inflammatories. Research suggests that the fats protect skin cells against sun-induced inflammation and help control how the body responds to UV rays, thereby mitigating damage. Omega-3 fatty acids may also fortify cell membranes, allowing them to protect other parts of the cell against harmful free radicals.

…THEY FIGHT WRINKLES. When pollution, stress and an unhealthy diet trigger inflammation, your skin’s collagen suffers, making it harder for skin to bounce back when you make facial expressions. This, in turn, can lead to wrinkles around the eyes and mouth and on the forehead. Moisturizing with skincare fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, helps support your skin’s structure, reducing the appearance of fine lines.

…THEY KEEP YOUR SKIN HYDRATED. Omega-3s are a crucial part of your skin’s lipid (fat) content and help bolster its barrier function, which, when working properly, acts like a seal that keeps moisture in and irritants out. When skin is compromised, though, moisture escapes, causing skin to become dry, rough and more prone to irritation. Increasing your omega-3 skincare regimen  helps strengthen that seal. In fact, researchers discovered that women who moisturized regularly with omega-3-rich skincare at least once a day increased skin hydration by 39 percent after 12 weeks. Their skin also felt significantly less rough and was less sensitive.

Though most of the benefits from omega-3s come from ingesting these healthy fats in food, they can nourish skin from the outside too. Omega-3s and their sister essential fatty acids, omega-6s, both of which are found in skin, can be effective moisturizers when applied topically. Just as when you consume them, rubbing these fatty acids on your skin helps bolster the barrier and improve smoothness.