Whether in diet, health or skincare, essential fatty acids are a common benefit term we hear about often. But what really are essential fatty acids and how do they benefit your skin health? We’ve got you covered.
How Essential Fatty Acids Benefit Skin
What are essential fatty acids?
Fatty acids are fats which play important roles in the body. There are different groups of fatty acids, the most important of these being those that our bodies cannot naturally produce – essential fatty acids.
Process of elimination
There are two key types of essential fatty acids: omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. These can be absorbed through our diets from foods such as fish, seeds and oils, but without enough of these, your skin can’t function as it should.
Essential fatty acids and skin
Essential fatty acids make up the building blocks of your skin’s surface layers and are crucial for healthy skin function, helping produce its natural oil barrier (which is essential for smooth, hydrated, plumper and healthier looking skin!)
Essential fatty acids in skincare
While essential fatty acids primarily come from your diet, they can also be used in skincare for their skin-loving properties. When applied to skin, they help to:
- Smooth skin surface
- Lock in hydration
- Help protect your skin from environmental damage
- Help keep skin glowing with health
