Similar to fish oil, omega fatty acids are popular for their various nutritional properties. These are recommended by doctors as part of the routine diet to ensure good health. These acids can bring about manifold health benefits, a few of which have been identified below:

• Improves cardiac health and treat blood pressure
• Controls diabetes
• Prevents cancer
• Protects against muscle aches and inflammations
• Improved brain health and condition
• Enhances immunity and prevents hormonal imbalances
• Improves vision

In addition to these benefits, Omega fatty acids are good for the skin and hair. These will become part of the discussion later. First, let’s understand the most important of all omega fatty acids and their respective dietary sources.

Types Of Omega Fatty Acids

These are valuable fats that come equipped with manifold benefits to the skin, hair, and health. The following ones are great for the skin, and these are just 3 out of a total 11 omega fatty acids.

Omega-3

These acids are composed of three fats commonly known as ALA (linolenic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). This sufficient acid is required by the human body but is not produced by it and is thus obtained via dietary sources.

ALA may be obtained from flaxseed oil, hemp oil, sea buckthorn seed and berry oils. Marine oils are a major source of EPA and DHA.

Omega-6

These belong to the polyunsaturated fatty acids family and are popular for anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-6 fatty acids are precursors to endocannabinoids, lipoxins, and eicosanoids. These are found in plant oils, linoleic acid, and passion fruit oil.

Omega-9

These are either monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fats and have first weak patch post the ninth bead. These are not part of the ‘essential’ fatty acids category and include the following acids:

• Oleic Acid
• Mead Acid
• Erucic Acid
• Nervonic Acid

Omega-9 fatty acids may be obtained from flaxseed oil, soybean oil, canola, peanut and sunflower oils.

Omega Fatty Acids And Skin

Omega-3 has been related to achieving a healthy and flawless skin. Use of this acid can help prevent against skin diseases like psoriasis, allergies, and acne. It comes equipped with natural sunscreen which ensures the protection of the skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Omega-3 has also been extensively used to treat photo dermatis and sun sensitivity. These acids may be used to rejuvenate the skin while mitigating the melanin synthesis. This further helps to restore skin tone, making the skin smooth, radiant and flawless. In addition to these, these acids are commonly known for a few other benefits that they provide to one’s skin, which have been listed below:

Omega-3 Acids Fight Wrinkles!

When inflammation is triggered through pollution, stress and unhealthy diet the skin collagens suffer. This makes it difficult for the skin to bounce back when facial expressions are made. This may lead to wrinkle formation around the eyes, nose and on the forehead. Consuming foods packed in omega-3 fatty acids, like arctic char, chia seeds, spinach and kidney beans, is likely to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark spots.

Omega-3 Acids Hydrate

These acids are also important for helping boost the skin’s barrier function. With the help of these essential acids, you can effectively seal in the moisture content, allowing the skin to remain hydrated throughout the day. In case of compromised skin, the moisture escapes, making the surface dry and prone to irritation and rashes. A consistent dry face is more prone to skin diseases and impurities accumulating under the surface. According to research, consuming a teaspoon full of omega-3-rich flaxseed oil on a daily basis can increase skin hydration by 39 percent in a period of 12 weeks.

Conclusion

So, if you aspire to achieve a healthy and glowing skin, try to incorporate these essential fatty acids into your daily routine. These are good for the skin, hair and for the overall health of an individual. Try a few of these oils and see for yourself!