Whether they are striated, brittle or soft, our nails are subjected to various physical and chemical aggressions every day. Any changes in their shape, texture or appearance could also indicate a nutrient deficiency. To strengthen them and make them less susceptible to damage, various nutrients can be incorporated into our diet, including omega-6. Discover whether these fatty acids have an effect on the nails.
Omega-6: Do they genuinely have effects on nails?
Summary
Published on June 5, 2024, by Kahina, Scientific Editor — 3 min of reading
Themes:
A brief overview of Omega-6.
The omega-6 are part of the polyunsaturated fatty acids, characterised by a molecular chain with double chemical bonds. Some are considered essential, as they are not synthesised by the body. Therefore, it is important to obtain them through diet. This is the case with linoleic acid. From this, other omega-6 can be produced by the body such as gamma-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid or dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid.
Omega-6 can be found in various foods: safflower oil, sunflower oil, corn oil, soybean oil, sunflower seeds, nuts, pumpkin seeds. Numerous studies have shown beneficial effects of consuming omega-6 for the skin, the hair. But what about the nails?
Can oral supplementation with omega-6 truly have an effect on the nails?
Information frequently circulates regarding the link between diet and nails. It is often said that the consumption of omega-6 can preserve the health of appendages, including the nails.
However, it is important to emphasise that no study has demonstrated any beneficial effect of oral intake of omega-6 on nail health.
In the absence of concrete scientific evidence, we cannot therefore take a stance on this matter. Before taking any measures for your nails, it is recommended to discuss this with your doctor or a health professional to find an approach suitable for your situation.
Sources
RODRIGUES H.G. & al. Wound Healing and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: From Inflammation to Repair. Mediators of Inflammation (2018).
MOKOS Z.B. & al. Omega-3 versus Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory skin diseases. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2020).
