http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/skin/EFA/
Conclusion
Omega-6 (n-6) and omega-3 (n-3) essential fatty acids (EFAs) are crucial to skin function and appearance. Both dietary and topical supplementation with EFAs can have profound effects on the fatty acid composition and eicosanoid milieu of the skin. As a result, addition of various EFA-rich oils (see the Table above) can modulate the inflammatory response in both dermal and epidermal layers of the skin. Supplementation with n-3 fatty acids in particular exerts protection from photodamage and photoaging. There is some evidence that n-3 supplementation adversely affects wound healing, but further research is necessary to address this question. N-6 EFAs are required for skin barrier function and structural integrity. Supplementation with n-6 fatty acids alleviates symptoms associated with skin sensitivity and inflammatory skin disorders. The mechanism by which EFAs influence skin reactions is likely through changes in the ratio of pro- and anti-inflammatory eicosanoids derived from EFA precursors. N-6 and n-3 fatty acids compete for the same enzymes; thus supplementation with specific EFAs can alter the corresponding metabolites, significantly influencing skin function and appearance.
Edit: Btw, hat tip to someone on RP fans for finding this. I saved this link last night, but when I went back today so I could give proper credit I could not find the original post.
Conclusion
Omega-6 (n-6) and omega-3 (n-3) essential fatty acids (EFAs) are crucial to skin function and appearance. Both dietary and topical supplementation with EFAs can have profound effects on the fatty acid composition and eicosanoid milieu of the skin. As a result, addition of various EFA-rich oils (see the Table above) can modulate the inflammatory response in both dermal and epidermal layers of the skin. Supplementation with n-3 fatty acids in particular exerts protection from photodamage and photoaging. There is some evidence that n-3 supplementation adversely affects wound healing, but further research is necessary to address this question. N-6 EFAs are required for skin barrier function and structural integrity. Supplementation with n-6 fatty acids alleviates symptoms associated with skin sensitivity and inflammatory skin disorders. The mechanism by which EFAs influence skin reactions is likely through changes in the ratio of pro- and anti-inflammatory eicosanoids derived from EFA precursors. N-6 and n-3 fatty acids compete for the same enzymes; thus supplementation with specific EFAs can alter the corresponding metabolites, significantly influencing skin function and appearance.
Edit: Btw, hat tip to someone on RP fans for finding this. I saved this link last night, but when I went back today so I could give proper credit I could not find the original post.
