Omega is the dry-skin saviour now found in skin care, not just food
By Samantha McMeekin
BEAUTYcrew Editor / November 19 2020
Hold the fish
By Samantha McMeekin
BEAUTYcrew Editor / November 19 2020
Our diet and lifestyle play a big part in the health of our skin.
And if you've ever looked into foods to encourage a youth-boosting glow, chances are you've been recommended to up your dose of salmon, mackerel and anchovies, or to try a fish oil supplement.
Why? Because they all contain a big dose of omega-3 fatty acids, known for fighting skin dryness, redness and irritation.
Omegas are now found in skincare, and according to the experts, the ingredient couldn't be better for treating our winter skin.
BEAUTYcrew spoke to Desiree Stordahl, Paula's Choice Senior Research and Education Manager, and Ramya Viswanathan, Senior Product Development Manager at Biossance, to get the lowdown.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE OMEGA FOUND IN FOOD AND THE OMEGA USED IN SKINCARE?
Both are beneficial for the skin, but the omegas in skincare work in a different way and often come from a different source (ie. fish-free).
"For years, research has shown oral intake of omegas can increase hydration levels in skin, improve barrier function, and inhibit UV-induced inflammation," says Stordahl. "Likewise, recent research has revealed you can get those same kinds of benefits by applying omegas topically."
When it comes to skincare, omega-3 is utilised, along with omega-6 and omega-9.
"Omega-3s are found in flax seed oil, chia oil, hemp seed oil, and certain species of algae," explains Stordahl. "Omega-6 is abundant in many plant oils, such as grapeseed and passionfruit, and examples of omega-9 include soy, meadowfoam and sunflower oils."
WHAT ARE THE MAIN BENEFITS OF TOPICAL OMEGA FOR THE SKIN?
Kept simply, the main benefit is hydration.
"They help replenish the skin's natural moisture barrier, which softens and calms irritated, compromised skin," Viswanathan tells BEAUTYcrew.
"Omegas also multitask by delivering antioxidants that strengthen skin against environmental stressors—all of which result in a healthier-looking complexion," adds Stordahl.
WHAT SKIN TYPES WOULD BENEFIT MOST FROM ADDING OMEGA INTO THEIR ROUTINE?
All skin types need hydration (yes, even oily), but Viswanathan says those with dry skin will find the difference most noticeable.
"Because omegas calm signs of external stressors, including redness, they're also great for sensitive or compromised skin," says Stordahl.
So, those on high alert for irritants need not worry either.
HOW SHOULD OMEGA SKINCARE BE USED?
You'll find most omegas within hydrating treatments, like moisturiser and eye creams, and both experts agree they should be used morning and night.
If you're already a big fan of hyaluronic acid, squalane, and ceramides, Viswanathan says omegas will marry well with your routine.
ARE THERE ANY DOWNSIDES TO USING OMEGA SKINCARE?
There really aren't any downsides to this ingredient, but if you're sustainably-conscious, Viswanathan says to always check the source.
"Some omegas are [still] sourced from fish so the downside would be that fish-derived is not vegan, and it may have a negative impact on the environment."
OMEGA SKINCARE PRODUCTS TO TRY
1. Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream ($91 at Sephora)
This soothing concoction is a godsend for irritated skin, at least, according to Queer Eye's Jonathan Van Ness who often uses it to calm his psoriasis flare-ups.
2. Paula's Choice Omega+ Complex Moisturiser, $48 at Paula's Choice
Serving up omega goodness in a luxurious whipped texture, this formula quenches the thirst of dehydrated skin types without weighing the skin down.
3. Sisley Paris Black Rose Precious Face Oil, $280 at Sisley Paris
Tackle dryness and wrinkles simultaneously with this highly concentrated dry oil. Active ingredients in abundance.
