Evidence supporting the use of: Gamma Linolenic Acid
For the health condition: Skin (dry and/or flaky)

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Synopsis

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

Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in plant oils such as evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant seed oil. Its use to support dry and/or flaky skin is supported by scientific evidence, though the overall strength of the evidence is moderate rather than robust.

GLA is a precursor to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), which can be converted into anti-inflammatory eicosanoids. Several small randomized controlled trials and observational studies have shown that supplementation with GLA can improve skin hydration, elasticity, and barrier function, particularly in individuals with atopic dermatitis or eczema, which are conditions often characterized by dry and flaky skin. For example, a 2014 meta-analysis in Advances in Therapy found that evening primrose oil supplementation led to modest improvements in skin condition in atopic dermatitis patients. Similarly, borage oil (high in GLA) has shown benefit in some studies for reducing skin roughness and water loss.

However, not all studies have shown consistent benefits, and some systematic reviews have concluded that while GLA supplementation appears to be safe, its efficacy for skin conditions is variable and may depend on individual metabolic differences. Overall, there is a plausible biological mechanism and moderate clinical evidence supporting the use of GLA for dry and/or flaky skin, justifying a mid-range rating.

More about Gamma Linolenic Acid
More about Skin (dry and/or flaky)

Other health conditions supported by Gamma Linolenic Acid

Arthritis
Eczema
Inflammation
PMS (general)
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Skin (dry and/or flaky)

Products containing Gamma Linolenic Acid

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