Omega-9s belong to the large family of fatty acids. Involved in various bodily functions, they offer several benefits for the skin. In addition to topical treatments, these fatty acids can also be obtained through diet. Discover in this article the positive effects of consuming omega-9s on the skin.
The benefits of omega-9 for the skin.
Published on May 24, 2024, by Kahina, Scientific Editor — 3 min of reading
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Omega-9 in a few words.
Omega-9 refers to a family of fatty acids, which are the main lipids present in the body. They are among the monounsaturated fatty acids, meaning they contain only one double bond. They are synthesized endogenously in humans, although they do not fully meet all the body's needs. Therefore, they are considered partially essential fatty acids. The most common ones are oleic acid, elaidic acid, gondoic acid, Mead acid, erucic acid, and nervonic acid.
Omega-9s are generally found in abundant quantities in olive oil,hazelnut oil, rapeseed oil, and avocado. Macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, almonds, cashews, pecans, and pistachios also have a high omega-9 content.
What are the skin benefits of consuming omega-9?
In the scientific literature, the primary effect of oral intake of omega-9 on the skin is its anti-inflammatory properties. Indeed, a study conducted by Adriana RIBEIRO SILVA and her team aimed to analyse the effect of omega-9 supplementation on inflammation, particularly the expression of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) gamma, an omega-9 receptor and an inflammation inhibitor. To achieve this, the researchers treated mice with omega-9 for 14 days and induced sepsis. They measured cytokine production as well as the expression of PPAR gamma.
Oral supplementation with omega-9 has been associated with an increase in the levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and a decrease in the levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β in mice with sepsis. Omega-9 also restored PPAR gamma expression in the liver and adipose tissue of septic animals. These data suggest an anti-inflammatory role of omega-9, likely through a mechanism dependent on PPAR gamma expression. This finding could be beneficial in the context of inflammatory skin diseases such as contact dermatitis and psoriasis.
Nevertheless, no scientific study has been conducted specifically on the effects of omega-9 consumption on the skin. Therefore, these remain hypotheses.
Sources
SILVA A.R. & al. Omega-9 oleic acid, the main compound of olive oil, mitigates inflammation during experimental sepsis. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity (2018).
GAD M.Z. & al. Omega-9 fatty acids: potential roles in inflammation and cancer management. Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (2022).
