Omega Fatty Acids (Vitamin F)
Nourishing fats, including the essential omega-3 and omega-6 once called vitamin F, that help the skin barrier hold water and stay supple.
omegas, omega-3, omega-6, omega-9, essential fatty acids, EFAs, vitamin F, linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, oleic acid, EPA, DHA
Dry & dehydrated skin · Barrier support · Sensitive skin
What it does
Omega fatty acids are fats that help nourish and plump our skin. Omega-3 and omega-6 are essential fatty acids: the body can't make them, so they come from the diet, such as oily fish, nuts and seeds, and can also be applied to the skin in oils and creams. 'Vitamin F' is an old name for the two essential ones, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). Depending on the type of omega, the benefits include hydration, suppleness, a calmer look to redness and soothing properties.
How it works
There are three main families. Omega-3s include alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), from plant oils, and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), mainly from oily fish. Omega-6s include linoleic acid, the most important for skin: it forms part of the ceramides that hold the barrier together, and oils rich in it tend to suit oily, blemish-prone skin. Omega-9s, such as oleic acid, are richer and more cushioning, and suit dry skin. Together, a healthy amount of omega can help strengthen the skin’s barrier, helping the epidermis retain water and resist external aggressors.
MG says
For complexions that need intensive nourishment and barrier support, Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream, with its omega-6-rich argan, avocado and evening primrose oils, is best in class. In the treatment room, I often finish with Eighth Day The Intensive Moisturiser, with omegas 3, 6 and 9, to lock in actives and prevent water loss.
Cautions
Oils rich in omegas can oxidise, so store them in dark bottles away from heat and light. Richer, oleic-heavy oils can feel too heavy for oily or breakout-prone skin, which tends to prefer lighter, linoleic-rich oils; if you're prone to breakouts, check an oil is non-comedogenic and patch test first.
