Recent studies have identified a role for omega-3 fatty acids (O3FAs) in various dermatological conditions.

The aim of a recent study published in the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery was to identify the spectrum of uses of O3FA supplementation and to evaluate the current level of evidence for its clinical application in skin disease prevention and management.

The present study entailed a search from Ovid MEDLINE for primary literature that examined O3FA intake and skin health.

Overall, 38 studies were selected, which reported the benefits for O3FA supplementation in the treatment of psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acneand skin ulcers. A reduced incidence of skin cancer and a decrease in the severity of drug-associated mucocutaneous side effects were observed with O3FA supplementation.

In inference, it was stated that O3FA is a reasonable supplement that may benefit patients wishing to improve inflammatory skin conditions, owing to its high safety profile, low cost and ease of supplementation. Areas of particular clinical interest where O3FA supplementation may be valuable include–systemic UV photoprotection and as an adjuvant treatment for acne—to reduce the inflammatory lesion count.

Source: Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. Sep/Oct 2020;24(5):481-494. doi: 10.1177/1203475420929925.