Flaxseed Oil May Improve Skin Condition

A recent study suggests that flaxseed oil supplementation may be beneficial for skin sensitivity and condition.

According to the study, dietary fatty acids may modulate skin properties, such as hydration. Flaxseed oil is a rich source of the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid, which is a precursor to omega-3 fatty acids.

Thirteen women were randomly assigned to receive daily supplementation of flaxseed oil or safflowerseed oil for 12 weeks. The researchers evaluated skin sensitivity, skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin surface at various points throughout the study.

The researchers found that the women treated with flaxseed oil had significant increases in skin hydration and smoothness, while sensitivity and TEWL decreased. The women treated with safflowerseed oil saw improvements in roughness and hydration; however, the improvements were not as great as those from the flaxseed oil group.

The authors concluded that daily flaxseed oil supplementation may be beneficial for skin condition; however, due to the small sample size additional research is necessary before conclusions can be made.

For more information about flaxseed oil, please visit Natural Standard's Foods, Herbs & Supplements database.

References
1.Natural Standard: The Authority on Integrative Medicine. www.naturalstandard.com
2.Neukam K, De Spirt S, Stahl W, et al. Supplementation of flaxseed oil diminishes skin sensitivity and improves skin barrier function and condition. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2011;24(2):67-74. View Abstract

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