Evidence supporting the use of: Linoleic acid (LA)
For the health condition: Skin (dry and/or flaky)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Linoleic acid (LA), an essential omega-6 fatty acid, is scientifically validated for its role in skin health, particularly in addressing dryness and flakiness. LA is a critical component of ceramides in the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin. Ceramides help maintain the skin barrier and retain moisture. Deficiency in linoleic acid has been linked to increased transepidermal water loss, skin dryness, and the development of scaly or flaky skin. Several studies in both animals and humans have demonstrated that diets low in linoleic acid can lead to dermatitis and impaired skin barrier function, which can be reversed with supplementation or topical application of LA.

Topical linoleic acid has shown efficacy in improving skin hydration and barrier repair. For example, research published in Dermatology and Journal of Investigative Dermatology suggests that topical or oral supplementation with LA improves skin smoothness, reduces scaling, and restores barrier function in individuals with dry or compromised skin. Clinical trials have also highlighted the benefit of LA-containing oils (such as sunflower or safflower oil) in treating atopic dermatitis and xerosis, often outperforming oils rich in oleic acid.

Overall, the use of linoleic acid for dry and flaky skin is grounded in a strong understanding of skin biology and is supported by multiple scientific studies. It is considered both a preventive and therapeutic agent for maintaining skin hydration and barrier integrity.

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