By: Liz Thompson
May 20, 2020
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 the way 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 answers to six of the most commonly asked questions about omega-3 benefits for skin.
1. What are omega-3 fatty acids, and what do they do for skin?
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients found in certain foods. They can serve to regulate the skin's oil production, improve balanced hydration, subdue breakouts and minimize signs of aging. Omega-3s can also help soften rough, dry skin and have a soothing effect on irritation and dermatitis.
But that's not all! Research shows that regularly taking fish oil may boost the skin's immunity to UV damage and skin cancer.
2. What foods contain omega-3s?
The most well-known food to be packed with these nutrients is fish oil. Think that suggestion sounds a little too ... fishy? Flax seeds, chia seeds and soybean oil are all vegetarian sources of omega-3s. The difference is that omega-3s from fish oil are readily absorbed upon consumption, while plant forms need to be converted first in the body before they can be used.
3. How do omega-3s interact with skin?
Getting your omega-3s through fish oil supplements or other foods can improve the fatty acid composition in your skin and balance its inflammatory response. In other words, skin stays softer and less inflamed! Keeping your fatty acid levels up also helps to minimize the effect of sun damage and improve sensitive skin conditions.
