Omega 3 vs Omega 6

Omega 3 and Omega 6 are called "Essential Fatty Acids" for a reason…it is essential for our well being. An imbalance can result in inflammatory diseases, and inflammation is the beginning of chronic conditions. 

Speak to our staff or pharmacists to see how we can best help you correct any Omega 3 and 6 imbalances.

Is Acne an Essential Fatty Acid deficiency?

When we look at the physiology of the skin, you will find the tiny glands of the hair follicles producing a mixture of wax and oil to protect our skin. One of the many roles of omega-3 Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) is to prevent this mixture from "caking up". 

By now, you may have heard one or two things about omega-3 EFA having an anti-inflammatory effect. In fact, there are hundreds of studies looking at omega-3 EFA in inflammatory diseases, like arthritis. Acne too, is an inflammatory condition. When the glands at the base of the hair follicle get blocked, bacteria can start to thrive, causing inflammation. 

There is recently a study showing positive result in the use of omega-3 EFA in the treatment of moderate to severe acne. The dose used was relatively high, about 3-4 caspules of the concentrated omega-3 EFA. 

Burns-Whitmore, Bonny and Khayef, Golandam, et al. Effects of fish oil supplementation on inflammatory acne. Lipids in Health and Disease 2012,11:165