Sometimes we get asked questions about ways patients can keep their skin healthy and for today’s post, we’d like to share a question that gets asked often and answer it for our blog readers.
Q: I hear a lot about omega-3 fatty acids like the kind found in fish oil supplements are good for skin. Is that true?
A: Definitely. Fish oil offers two main types of omega-3 fatty acids: DHA & EPA. EPA can be beneficial to the skin because it regulates oil production to boost hydration as well as prevent acne. It also can delay the skin’s aging process to help avoid wrinkles. A 2005 study in the Journal of Lipid Research found that EPA can help block the release of UV-induced enzymes that eat away at collagen, causing lines and sagging skin. Because EPA is both an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory agent, it can protect against sun damage and help repair it.
Most people don’t get enough omega-3 in their diets so it might be a good idea to talk to your doctor about adding a supplement to your daily regimen. As with any new vitamin or supplement, it’s always best to speak with your physician before making any changes, especially if you are pregnant or have other chronic conditions that might cause to have adverse reactions.
If you would like to speak to a member of our team about ways to improve the health and quality of your skin, we are here to help. Skin health is an important part of total body wellness. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.
Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.
Leave a Reply