As Skin Therapists, we’re deeply passionate about the importance of incorporating and recommending essential fatty acids as a vital part of achieving healthy, radiant skin.
If you’ve experienced one of our skin consultations, you’ll know that treating the skin from the inside out is a key focus in the conversations we have during your time with us.
Essential fatty acids offer a wide range of benefits, supporting not only the skin but also bone health, muscles, joints, chronic skin conditions, various diseases, and inflammatory disorders.
From my personal experience with taking essential fatty acid supplements, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s moisture barrier and overall hydration—both in my skin and body. My skin never feels dehydrated anymore!
What are Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)?
These good fats known as Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are deemed essential because your body cannot produce them on its own, so they must come from your diet. However, our diet doesn’t often provide us with good quality and quantity of EFAs.
The two primary EFA’s are known as linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3).
What is Omega-3?
Omega-3s are nutrients you get from food that help build and maintain a healthy body. They are the answer to the structure of every cell wall you have – Omega-3s are the building blocks of fats.
They play a major role in our energy source to help keep your heart, lungs, blood vessels, and immune system working.
You can find Omega-3 in foods such as fish. The best fish sources of Omega-3 are salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring and sardines. The best vegan sources of Omega-3 are flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts and flaxseed oil.
However, through our diet we unfortunately cannot receive an adequate amount of Omega-3, so supplementing our diet with a EFAs will help up your intake of Omega-3.
How Essential Fatty Acids relate to the skin?
Essential in building the skin barrier function and maintaining a healthy cell membrane, Essential Fatty Acids are the building blocks to a healthy skin.
Essential Fatty Acids release their fish oil rich source into our skin to build, protect and strengthen the layers of our skin.
An insufficient amount of Omega-3 can result in irregularities in the skin barrier function.
When the cell membrane is not intact or becomes damaged through lifestyle, oxidated stress, diet, and wrongly prescribed skin care products it will not function correctly leading to other skin condition’s like dehydration and premature skin ageing.
Not all omegas are created equal
While omega-3, omega-6, omega-7, and omega-9 all play roles in overall health, it’s the balance and quality of these fatty acids that truly matter—especially when it comes to skin health. For example, omega-3s (like EPA and DHA found in fish oil) have powerful anti-inflammatory benefits, whereas an excess of low-quality omega-6s (often found in processed foods) can contribute to inflammation. Choosing high-quality, well-balanced sources of essential fatty acids is key to seeing real results in the skin and body.
What does EPA and DHA mean inessential fatty acids?
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) are both types of omega-3 fatty acids that are especially beneficial for overall health and skin wellness. They are primarily found in marine sources, such as fatty fish (like salmon, mackerel, and sardines) and certain algae.
EPA benefits
Anti-inflammatory: EPA is well-known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it excellent for calming irritated or inflamed skin, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis.
Improves Skin Hydration: By reducing inflammation, EPA helps improve the skin’s natural barrier, leading to better moisture retention and healthier skin.
Supports Skin Healing: Helps to reduce redness and supports skin recovery after sun damage or irritations.
DHA benefits
Skin Cell Structure: DHA is a crucial component of cell membranes, especially in skin cells. It helps maintain healthy cell structure, which is essential for optimal skin function and resilience.
Anti-Aging Benefits: DHA contributes to the regeneration of skin cells, which helps in the fight against premature aging by maintaining elasticity and reducing fine lines.
Moisture Retention: DHA supports the skin’s ability to retain moisture, improving hydration and preventing dryness.
Why Both EPA and DHA matter for skin
Balance and Synergy: While EPA is excellent for reducing inflammation, DHA is crucial for skin integrity and moisture. Together, they provide a comprehensive approach to maintaining healthy, balanced, and youthful skin.
Get ready for glowing, healthy skin! Start incorporating essential fatty acids into your routine with our top-choice supplement today – NORDIC NATURALS PRO OMEGA.