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Article: Essential Fatty Acids and Skin Care

Essential Fatty Acids and Skin Care

Essential Fatty Acids and Skin Care

 

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) have a vital role in maintaining skin health, and there are two main types in particular that are important.

1.Omega-3 Fatty Acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties to calm and soothe irritated/inflamed skin, and are ideal for those who suffer from eczema, acne and other skin conditions such as psoraisis.  

 

Omega-3 EFAs also support the skin's barrier function to assist in maintaining hydration, and provideprotection against environmental damage:

Alpha-linolenic Acid: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an Omega-3 Fatty Acid found in various plant-based oils (flaxseed, hemp), seeds (chia, flaxseed), and nuts (walnuts). While ALA is primarily known for its importance in overall health, including cardiovascular health and brain function, it also offers potential benefits for skin health when included in skincare products or consumed as part of a balanced diet.  Canola oil contains moderate amounts of ALA, though it's often refined.  Soybeans and tofu contain ALA and can be a good addition to a balanced diet.

Here are some ways in which alpha-linolenic acid can contribute to skincare:

Moisturisation: ALA, like other omega-3 fatty acids, helps maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, preventing water loss and improving hydration levels. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.

Anti-inflammatory: ALA has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin. It may be beneficial for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

Antioxidant: ALA has antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution. This can contribute to a more youthful and radiant complexion.

Wound healing: Some research suggests that ALA may support the skin's natural healing process, aiding in the repair of wounds and promoting faster recovery.

Sun protection: While not a substitute for sunscreen, ALA may provide some level of protection against UV-induced skin damage due to its antioxidant properties

2. Omega-6 Fatty Acids are important for maintaining the skin's lipid barrier, and reducing moisture loss.  Moisturising properties improve skin texture, and assist in reducing the appearance of fine lines/wrinkles.

 

Omega-6 Fatty Acids also have anti-inflammatory properties, and include the following fatty acids:

Linoleic Acid: Is a polunsaturated fatty acid that cannot be synthesised by the human body, and must be acquired through diet.  It is a major component of sunflower, safflower, olive, soy bean, sesame and corn oils. It is also present in nuts (walnuts/pinenuts/pecans/brazil nuts/almonds/cashews), seeds (hemp/sunflower), meat, lamb, chicken, peanut butter, tofu and fatty fish (tuna/sardines)

Linoleic acid offers several benefits, but consuming too much of it can be more harmful than helpful. The average adult consumes Linoleic Acid at a ratio of 17:1 with Omega-3 Fatty acids, due to the high proportion of fried, ready made foods that are high in Linoleic Acid. It is recommended that the correct ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids should be 1:1 or 2:1. 

Low Levels of Linoleic Acid can contribute to skin problems such as dryness, scaling, and poor wound healing, but this is gaining a lot of attention fot its potential benefits in addressing acne-prone skin.  Research suggests that a deficiency in Linoleic Acid in sebum may well contribute to the development and exaccerbation of acne:

Regulaton of Sebum Production: The sebum produced by sebaceous glands can be overproduced in acne prone skin, and studies have shown that those with acne tend to have lower levels of Linoleic Acid in their sebum.  Incorporating face products that are high in Linoleic Acid may help to regulate sebum, and reduce the liklihood of clogged pores, and acne breakouts.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: Linoleic Acid may help with inflammation associated with acne, such as papules, pustules, redness, swelling and tenderness, and lessen the severity of outbreaks, as well as promote faster healing.

Prevention of Microcomedone Formation: Microcomedones are precursors to acne lesions, forming when hair follicles become clogged with excess sebum and dead skin cells.  Linoleic Acid may help by keeping sebum more fluid, and less likely to clog pores.

Improved Skin Barrier Function: Linoleic Acid helps maintain the skin's lipid barrier integrity; vital for healthy skin. A strong lipid barrier helps to protect skin from external irritants/pathogens, reducing the risk of inflammation and breakouts.

Oils high in Linoleic Acid: 

Blackcurrant Seed Oil: Contains 40-50 % Linoleic Acid and has sebum regulating properties with a comedogenic rating of 0.  Has anti-inflammatory properties and is great for all skin types as it moisturises without a greasy feel.

Borage Oil: Contains a high level of Linoleic Acid and Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA). Supports skin barrier function, reduces inflammation, and helps with conditions like eczema.  Comedogenic rating = 2 (not very likely to clog pores)

Rosehip Oil: Is known for its regenerative properties and high Linoleic Acid content, with Vitamins A and C. Hydrates, improves skin texture, and helps with skin repair and regeneration. Comodegenic rating = 1 (unlikely to clog pores).

Argan Oil: Contains Linoleic Acid and helps with skin hydration and repair. Rich in Vitamin E, moisturises, improves skin elasticity, and is anti-inflammatory.  Comedogenic rating = 0-1... perfectly fine for acne-prone skin!

Grapeseed Oil: Rich in Linoleic Acid and is a light, non-comedogenic option, and rich in anti-oxidants, such as Vitamin E, and is non-comedogenic, so will not block pores, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Hemp Seed Oil: Rich in Linoleic Acid and also contains omega-3 fatty acids. Balances oil production, soothes irritated skin, and provides hydration. Comedogenic rating = 0 (will not clog pores).

Sunflower Oil: High in Linoleic Acid, which is beneficial for maintaining the skin's barrier and reducing inflammation. It’s often used in skincare products because of its lightweight texture and non-comedogenic (0-2) properties.

Safflower Oil: Rich in Linoleic Acid, with a comedogenic rating of 0 to 2, and indicates that it is less likely to clog pores.  It can help balance oil production and improve skin hydration without contributing to acne.

Corn Oil: Contains a significant amount of Linoleic Acid, but has a comedogenic rating of 4, so steer clear if you have acne-prone skin! 

Soybean Oil: A good source of Linoleic Acid (approximately 55%)  and Alpha-Linoeic Acid (5-8%) but also high in Oleic acid (23-30%) so may not be so good for acne-prone skin!  Comedogenic rating = 4.

Gamma-Linolenic Acid: Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid that is known for its potential benefits in skin health. GLA is not produced by the body naturally, so it must be obtained through dietary sources or supplements. It's found in certain plant-based oils, such as evening primrose, borage, and blackcurrant seed oils.

GLA has gained attention in skincare due to its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties. Here's how it can benefit the skin:

Moisturisation: GLA helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier, which can improve hydration levels and prevent dryness. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.

Anti-inflammatory: GLA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help calm irritated or inflamed skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

Skin barrier function: GLA plays a role in supporting the skin's barrier function, which is important for protecting against environmental stressors and maintaining overall skin health.

Acne: Some research suggests that GLA may help regulate sebum production in the skin, which could potentially benefit individuals with acne-prone skin by reducing excess oiliness.

Wound healing: GLA may also support the skin's natural healing process, aiding in the repair of wounds and promoting faster recovery.

Oils high in Gamma-Linoleic Acid: Borage Oil

GLA Content: Approximately 20-25%

Benefits: Borage oil has the highest concentration of GLA among natural oils. It's used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis, and is also known for its ability to support joint health and reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Black Currant Seed Oil

GLA content: Approximately 15-20%

Benefits: Black currant seed oil is rich in GLA and is often used for improving skin elasticity, reducing inflammation, and supporting immune function. It's also used in managing symptoms related to menopause and PMS.

Also high in Alpha-Linolenic acid (ALA) 12-15% and has anti-inflammatory properties, as well as being soothing.  A good addition to any skin care regime.

Comedogenic rating = 0 so safe for all skin types!

Omega-9 Fatty Acid is a mono-saturated non-essential fatty acid that the body can produce. 

Oleic Acid is the most common Omega-9 fatty acid:

Oleic Acid: is found in many foods such as olive, avocado, almond and macadamia oils, nuts (peanuts/almonds/hazelnuts/cashews/almonds), and olives.

In terms of skin care, Oleic Acid helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier to keep it hydrated.  Great for mature, dry skin.  However, when it comes to acne-prone skin, there are a few things to consider when using oils high in Oleic Acid:

Comedogenicity: Oleic Acid is considered moderately comedogenic, with the potential to clog pores, exacerbate existing acne lesions or contribute to the formation of new lesions, especially if used in high concentrations or with other higher rated comedogenic oils.

Inflammation: Whilst Oleic Acid is considered less irritating than other fatty acids, it may still contribute to inflammation in some people with acne, and can worsen existing acne lesions.

Skin Barrier Function: Whilst Oleic Acid moisturises and supports the skin's lipid barrier, oleic-rich face products may contribute to excessive moisture that leads to blocked pores and exacerbation of acne.

Oils high in Oleic Acid: Sweet Almond, Apricot Kernel, Avocado, Buriti, Camellia Seed, Carrot Seed, Emu, Hazelnut, Macadamia Nut, Moringa, Olive, Peach Kernel, Pistachio, Plum Kernel.

STEER CLEAR if you have acne-prone skin!!!

 

CONFUSED!!! It is confusing to know what skin care products and ingredients to use!!!

Luckily, we have done all of the hard work for you!!!  All of our products take into account different skin types, essential fatty acids, and comedogenic ratings etc... 

Did you know that many of our products suit both aging, mature skin AND acne-prone skin??  YES!!! Both skin types can use them... It is a science BUT we have your back!  

Coming soon- our web site is currently being rebuilt by Anna and her fabulous team at House of Cart, and we hope to make it sooo much easier for our customers to select products for their skin type (yes, it all overlaps, and that is great for us, but maybe not for you!)

Stay tuned fabulous people 

jean & andy 💚

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