Omegas & Your Skin

Omegas, what are they?
Ok, so this is a bit of a science-y blog but it's an important part of skin health. Omegas are fatty acids. There's omega 3, 6 & 9. Omega 3 & 6 are essantial fatty acids (EFAs), as they cannot be made in the body when it's needed.

Types of Omega 3 Fatty Acids ->
​- Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA)
- Eiscosapentaenoic (EPA)
- Docosahexaenoic (DHA)

Types of Omega 6 Fatty Acids ->
- Linoleic Acid (LA)
- Gamma linoleic (GLA)
- Arachidonic Acid (AA)                    (Pic: Google)

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Essential Fatty Acids

Omega 3 aka ALA, can converted in the body to produce EPA and DHA. Omega 6 aka LA, can be converted into GLA and AA. Omegas have a multitude of benefits to the body, skin and brain, but I'm going to focus on the benefits to the skin.
The breakdown of LA and ALA in the skin can be limited and many EFAs can be oxidised by the liver before reaching the skin tissues. This is why it is important to apply EFAs topically in our skincare as well as interanally through our diet. Omega supplements are also widely available but this must be discussed with your healthcare professional.
Omega Fatty Acids Benefits To The Skin;​
- controls the anti inflammatory response in the skin
- help build the structure of the skin
- essential for repair and healing
- critical for normal skin function and oil production
- helps prevent dryness and locks in moisture
- lessens the signs of sun damage and provides anti ageing properties

Topical Benefits Omega Fatty Acids;
Omega 3 (ALA)
- regulates oil production
- increase elasticity
- helps retain moisture
- improves appearance of sun damage
Omega6 (LA)
- protects the skin by restoring and maintaining a healthy barrier
- essential for healthy function of the skin
Omega 9 (Oleic Acid)
- seals in moisture
- softens the skin
- anti inflammatory

Its important to make sure that we are applying the right products to our skin and getting the most out of them. Everyone should make sure they are getting enough EFAs, no matter the skin type.
Essential for;
- dry skin
-ageing skin
- mature skin
- oily skin
- acne prone
- rosacea
- eczema & dermatitis
- psoriasis
They help maintain the strength and shine in your hair and can also help with the absorbtion of antioxidants because of their ability to permeate the skin's barrier.
So, by choosing skincare products that include omegas and incorporating them in your diet, gives your skin the best chance at being healthy and looking healthy. If you're experiencing minor breakouts, patches of dry skin or signs of premature ageing maybe you should look at whether this might be something you're lacking.

The Vitality Super Vitamin range from the brand Nía Natural Beauty, is packed with fatty acids and anti oxidants among other natural ingredients. This is an example of products you can get that provide almost everything you might need to feed your skin from the outside. Knowing what is in your skincare products helps you to better understand what is happening with your skin. Your skincare routine is an investment in your skin, so don't be afraid to ask about ingredients or ask about certain ingredients you want to include in your routine.
As always feel free to leave a comment and let me know what you think or if there's anything you'd like to ask me you can contact me on any of my social media platforms or by email. Enjoy xx

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