Researchers from Germany and France have found that supplements of flaxseed or borage oil can protect the skin against reddening and roughness, and can improve the general health of skin from within.
The omega fats resulted in less roughness, redness and dehydration.
The researchers recruited 45 non-smoking, healthy women between the ages of 18 and 65 and randomly assigned them to receive daily supplements of flaxseed oil (2.2 grams of total fatty acids); or borage oil(2.2 grams of total fatty acids); or medium-chain fatty acids as a placebo. At the study’s outset and again after 12 weeks, the subjects’ skin was irritated with nicotinate (a salt of vitamin B3, or niacin),which induces inflammation and reddening.
After six and 12 weeks of supplementation, researchers observed an increase in blood levels of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) in the flaxseed group, and of the omega-6 fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in the borage group. They also noted a significant decrease in reddening of the skin following nicotinate irritation in both the flaxseed group (45%) and borage oil group (35%), compared to starting values. No differences were noted among those in the placebo group.
Other positive skin health results in both oils supplement groups included a decrease in blood flow to the in skin and less water loss (dehydration) from the skin, especially in the flaxseed oil group(25%). Roughness and scaling (dry peeling skin) was also decreased significantly after 12 weeks in the two oil groups, but not in the placebo group.
According to essential fatty acid expert Udo Erasmus,"EFAs form a barrier in our skin against loss of moisture, protect us from dehydration, and prevent many problems involving histamines, prostaglandins, and inflammation." He notes that "dry skin indicates a need for EFAs. In winter, we need more than in summer. When the weather turns in fall, dry skin is your sign to take more EFAs."
Source: British Journal of Nutrition (doi: 10.1017/S0007114508020321); www.udoerasmus.com
