Evidence supporting the use of: Fatty acids
For the health condition: Acne

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, have been investigated for their role in managing acne. Scientific evidence suggests that these fatty acids may help reduce inflammation, a key factor in acne pathogenesis. Omega-3 fatty acids (such as EPA and DHA found in fish oil) can lower the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and decrease the expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), both of which are implicated in acne development. Several clinical studies have reported modest improvements in acne severity with omega-3 supplementation. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in 2012 found that participants with mild to moderate acne experienced significant reductions in inflammatory lesions after 10 weeks of omega-3 supplementation compared to placebo. However, the number of high-quality trials remains limited, and not all studies have shown consistent benefits.

Topically, certain fatty acids such as linoleic acid have also demonstrated benefits. Studies have shown that the skin surface of individuals with acne tends to be deficient in linoleic acid, and topical application can help restore skin barrier function and reduce microcomedone formation. While these findings are promising, the overall evidence base is moderate and more large-scale, well-controlled studies are needed to firmly establish efficacy and optimal use guidelines for fatty acids in acne treatment.

More about fatty acids
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alpha-pinene
alpha-terpineol
andrographolide
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anemarrhena asphodeloides
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argan nut oil
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azelaic acid
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banyan
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bee products
bee propolis
berberine
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black cumin
black seed
blackboard tree
burdock
bасора
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cannabichromene
cannabigerol
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carvacrol
caryophyllene
castile soap
Centipeda
chamomile
chinatree
Chinese raisintree
chlorophyllin
chrysanthemum
Clerodendrum indicum
coconut
copaiba oil
cucumber
Curcuma
curcumen
curcumin
Curcuminoid
Dianthus
DIM (diindolylmethane)
Eclipta
epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)
essential oil blend
estrogen
ethyl linoleate
eugenol
evening primrose oil
evening primrose oil
fatty acids
fulvic acid
gallic acid
garlic bulb
Glabridin
glyceryl monolaurate
Glycolic acid
green tea
heal-all
hemp
hemp oil
henna
herbal blend (proprietary)
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honey
honeysuckle
Hydrocolloid
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indigo leaves
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jojoba oil
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lactic acid
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Lactoperoxidase
lauric acid
lavender
licorice root
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Mahonia
mangostin
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melaleuca alternifolia
Melia
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Monolaurin
Monoterpenes
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omega-6 fatty acids
oregon grape
oriental arborvitae
paederia foetida
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pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)
Pentacyclic triterpenoids
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phenolic compounds
phlorotannins
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scrophularia root
seaweed
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Products containing fatty acids

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.