Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 6 Researches
7.5
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 1 Review
8.5

Top Medical Research Studies

9
Docosahexaenoic acid reduces acne risk
We investigated the relationship between docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and the occurrence of acne. Using a method called Mendelian randomization, we looked at how genetic variations associated with DHA might influence acne development in large groups of participants, including over 115,000 individuals from the UK and nearly 364,000 of Finnish ancestry.

Our findings revealed that higher levels of DHA are actually linked to a lower risk of developing acne. Specifically, we found that a significant increase in DHA levels or its proportion compared to total fatty acids corresponded with a reduced likelihood of acne. In contrast, higher levels of linoleic acid (LA), another type of PUFA, were associated with an increased acne risk.

This suggests that balancing our intake of these fatty acids might be important for skin health. Notably, the results pointed towards a genetic connection involving the FADS1 gene, which appears to play a role in how these fatty acids affect our skin.

In conclusion, increasing DHA could be beneficial in protecting against acne, while excessive linoleic acid might have the opposite effect. Overall, our study highlights the importance of these fatty acids in understanding acne risk better.
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We explored the potential benefits of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, in treating acne. Over 16 weeks, 60 participants followed a Mediterranean diet paired with algae-derived DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) supplementation. We aimed to boost their omega-3 levels and observe any changes in their acne severity.

Remarkably, our study found that nearly all participants started with a deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids. After the dietary and supplementation intervention, the average omega-3 index rose significantly, indicating improved levels of DHA and EPA. More importantly, participants experienced notable reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions.

While a few individuals reported that their skin appearance worsened, the collective quality of life among participants improved, especially for those with papulopustular acne. They also became more aware of dietary triggers and made healthier choices, like reducing cow's milk and dairy intake. Overall, we saw a promising link between increased omega-3 levels and improved acne outcomes.
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We evaluated the relationship between eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) levels and acne vulgaris to better understand how this fatty acid influences skin health. Our study included serum samples from 21 healthy individuals and 31 patients with acne. We measured various fatty acids, along with specific proteins linked to inflammation and fat metabolism.

The findings showed that EPA levels were significantly lower in acne patients compared to the control group. This decrease in EPA was coupled with an increase in the ratio of arachidonic acid to EPA, suggesting a shift towards a more inflammatory state in those suffering from acne.

Additionally, we noted higher activity levels of secretory phospholipase A2 and lipoprotein lipase in acne patients. Increased LPL activity might actually provide some protective effects against skin issues related to lipid imbalance.

This study is pivotal as it highlights the potential role of omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA, in acne management. While more research is needed, the results suggest that incorporating EPA may complement existing acne treatments, potentially addressing inflammation and helping to improve skin health.
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Most Useful Reviews

9
No more skin issues
23 people found this helpful
This fish oil brand is the only one that helps my skin without causing breakouts. I have had reactions to most fish oil supplements, developing cystic acne, but this one has led to no problems. Highly recommend for anyone who has had acne reactions to others!
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 6 Researches
7.5
  • All Researches
9
Docosahexaenoic acid reduces acne risk
We investigated the relationship between docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and the occurrence of acne. Using a method called Mendelian randomization, we looked at how genetic variations associated with DHA might influence acne development in large groups of participants, including over 115,000 individuals from the UK and nearly 364,000 of Finnish ancestry.

Our findings revealed that higher levels of DHA are actually linked to a lower risk of developing acne. Specifically, we found that a significant increase in DHA levels or its proportion compared to total fatty acids corresponded with a reduced likelihood of acne. In contrast, higher levels of linoleic acid (LA), another type of PUFA, were associated with an increased acne risk.

This suggests that balancing our intake of these fatty acids might be important for skin health. Notably, the results pointed towards a genetic connection involving the FADS1 gene, which appears to play a role in how these fatty acids affect our skin.

In conclusion, increasing DHA could be beneficial in protecting against acne, while excessive linoleic acid might have the opposite effect. Overall, our study highlights the importance of these fatty acids in understanding acne risk better.
Read More
We explored the potential benefits of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, in treating acne. Over 16 weeks, 60 participants followed a Mediterranean diet paired with algae-derived DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) supplementation. We aimed to boost their omega-3 levels and observe any changes in their acne severity.

Remarkably, our study found that nearly all participants started with a deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids. After the dietary and supplementation intervention, the average omega-3 index rose significantly, indicating improved levels of DHA and EPA. More importantly, participants experienced notable reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions.

While a few individuals reported that their skin appearance worsened, the collective quality of life among participants improved, especially for those with papulopustular acne. They also became more aware of dietary triggers and made healthier choices, like reducing cow's milk and dairy intake. Overall, we saw a promising link between increased omega-3 levels and improved acne outcomes.
Read More
8
Docosahexaenoic acid aids acne treatment
We conducted an interesting study to understand how docosahexaenoic acid (a type of omega-3 fatty acid) influences acne treatment. Over 10 weeks, 45 participants with mild to moderate acne were divided into three groups: one receiving omega-3 fatty acids, another taking gamma-linoleic acid, and a control group.

Remarkably, those who received omega-3 and gamma-linoleic acid experienced significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions. This improvement was reflected in participants’ personal assessments, highlighting their positive experiences with the treatment.

Additionally, we observed that laboratory tests showed decreased inflammation and a reduction in levels of interleukin-8, a marker linked to acne inflammation. Importantly, there were no serious side effects reported, which is encouraging for considering these supplements as adjunct treatments for acne.

Overall, our findings suggest that incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, like docosahexaenoic acid, may be beneficial for individuals struggling with acne, providing a natural option alongside conventional treatments.
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8
Eicosapentaenoic acid shows promise
We aimed to explore the effectiveness of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) along with other long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) in treating acne and superficial infections caused by the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus. In our investigation, we found that these fatty acids exhibited antibacterial properties, with a range of effectiveness against the two types of bacteria.

The study revealed that P. acnes showed more sensitivity to the growth-inhibiting effects of LC-PUFAs compared to S. aureus. Interestingly, while these compounds were capable of stopping P. acnes growth, they were only bactericidal, meaning they could kill S. aureus. Our findings also included the discovery of the antibacterial activity in previously unreported fatty acids such as 15-hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid (15-OHEPA) and 15-hydroxyeicosatrienoic acid (HETrE).

Additionally, we noted that when S. aureus was exposed to these fatty acids, the bacteria were effectively killed within a short timeframe, specifically between 15 to 30 minutes. Combining these LC-PUFAs with established treatments did not reduce their effectiveness and revealed potential potentiation of action, particularly in combinations with commonly used acne medications like benzoyl peroxide and neomycin.

In conclusion, our observations suggest that eicosapentaenoic acid and other LC-PUFAs may be valuable new options for treating skin infections caused by P. acnes and S. aureus, especially when used alongside conventional therapies. However, further studies are needed to fully understand their potential in clinical settings.
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7
Eicosapentaenoic acid potentially helps acne
We explored the impact of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on acne among individuals who often experience psychological challenges alongside their skin condition. Acne vulgaris is not only a prevalent skin issue but is also linked to feelings of depression, anxiety, and other emotional struggles. Given that many individuals with such conditions frequently turn to dietary supplements, we investigated whether EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid, could provide relief for both skin symptoms and mood issues.

In our observations, five cases of patients who self-administered EPA along with antioxidant nutrients showed signs of improvement in their inflammatory acne lesions and overall well-being. While the results are promising, showcasing potential benefits of such a combination, it is crucial to note that the specific effect of EPA alone cannot be completely determined due to the presence of other nutrients in the treatment.

The findings point to a compelling link between nutrition and skin health, particularly for those struggling with both acne and mental health problems. However, to firmly establish these effects, further controlled trials are necessary. This helps ensure that the relationship we are seeing is accurate and meaningful for those seeking relief from acne.
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User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 1 Review
8.5
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
No more skin issues
23 people found this helpful
This fish oil brand is the only one that helps my skin without causing breakouts. I have had reactions to most fish oil supplements, developing cystic acne, but this one has led to no problems. Highly recommend for anyone who has had acne reactions to others!
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

No FAQs are available for this product and symptom.

References

  1. Kim BR, Kim G, Jin SP, Choi CW, Kim J, et al. The causal association between polyunsaturated fatty acids and acne: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study. Br J Dermatol. 2025. doi:10.1093/bjd/ljaf052
  2. Guertler A, Neu K, Lill D, Clanner-Engelshofen B, French LE, et al. Exploring the potential of omega-3 fatty acids in acne patients: A prospective intervention study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024;23:3295. doi:10.1111/jocd.16434
  3. Jung JY, Kwon HH, Hong JS, Yoon JY, Park MS, et al. Effect of dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acid and gamma-linolenic acid on acne vulgaris: a randomised, double-blind, controlled trial. Acta Derm Venereol. 2014;94:521. doi:10.2340/00015555-1802
  4. Aslan İ, Özcan F, Karaarslan T, Kıraç E, Aslan M. Decreased eicosapentaenoic acid levels in acne vulgaris reveals the presence of a proinflammatory state. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat. 2017;128-129:1. doi:10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2016.12.001
  5. Desbois AP, Lawlor KC. Antibacterial activity of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids against Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus. Mar Drugs. 2013;11:4544. doi:10.3390/md11114544
  6. Rubin MG, Kim K, Logan AC. Acne vulgaris, mental health and omega-3 fatty acids: a report of cases. Lipids Health Dis. 2008;7:36. doi:10.1186/1476-511X-7-36
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