Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Omega-6 fatty acids, particularly gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), have been investigated for their potential role in supporting or treating psoriasis. Psoriasis is characterized by chronic inflammation and hyperproliferation of skin cells, processes in which fatty acids and their metabolites are known to play a role. The rationale for using omega-6 fatty acids is based on their involvement in the production of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids, which may help modulate the inflammatory process in psoriasis.

Some clinical studies have explored the effects of evening primrose oil (a rich source of GLA, an omega-6 fatty acid) on psoriasis symptoms. While a few small trials and anecdotal reports have suggested minor improvements in skin hydration and scaling, the overall body of evidence remains limited and inconsistent. A 2017 review in the journal Dermatology and Therapy noted that while omega-6 fatty acids can exert anti-inflammatory effects, data specific to psoriasis are insufficient to make strong recommendations. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally point to a lack of robust, large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials supporting the efficacy of omega-6 supplementation for psoriasis.

Thus, while there is a plausible biological mechanism and some preliminary data for the use of omega-6 fatty acids in psoriasis, the scientific evidence is weak and not definitive. Most clinical guidelines do not currently recommend omega-6 fatty acids as a primary or adjunctive treatment for psoriasis.

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