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How Do I Use Fish Oil for Acne?
Fish oil for acne is usually taken in liquid or capsule form. It contains omega-3 fatty acids that improve the properties of your skin, such as its texture and oiliness, and reduces the inflammation associated with acne. Fish oil for acne is not applied directly to the skin but taken orally to improve skin from the inside. Research fish oil products to ensure your purchase is free of toxins and is high in omega-3 content. Eating oily fish containing omega-3 fatty acids can help improve the appearance of acne; however adults should not eat more than two portions of oily fish, such as salmon or tuna, per week because of potential heavy metal toxicity.
The anti-inflammatory properties present in fish oil for acne helps reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne. It also regulates androgen levels, the hormone responsible for skin oil production. By limiting the amount of omega-6 fatty acids you consume, and increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, the appearance of acne can be reduced. Omega-6 fatty acids are found in less healthy processed foods containing vegetable oil, such as burgers, fries and potato chips.
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats useful for effective cellular and hormonal metabolic functions. Ingesting omega-3 reduces acne inflammation from within your body. Fish oil containing omega-3 can be purchased from your local health food or drug store, or online. Ensure you are buying a good quality fish oil that does not smell fishy. The label should show that it is pure with no contamination, and that it has high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil for acne is usually available in capsule form or in a drinkable liquid, with capsules being more palatable.
Take 3 - 4 grams omega-3 fatty acids per day to potentially improve the appearance of acne. Read the label on the product to ensure that you receive the desired amount. Take fish oil at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day so that your body evenly absorbs it. Fish oils with a one to one blend of hokey oil and distilled tuna oil are absorbed easily into the body.
If you are allergic to fish oils or are seeking an alternative source of omega-3, then walnuts, soy beans, navy beans and flaxseed can be eaten as substitutes. Check with your local organic market for foods and supplements that are fortified with omega-3 to augment your diet.
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AS FEATURED ON:
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![Mackerel is often used as the source for fish oil tablets.]()
Mackerel is often used as the source for fish oil tablets. -
![Fish oil tablets.]()
Fish oil tablets. -
![A boy with acne.]()
By: Jörg HackemannA boy with acne. -
![Navy beans, which can be substituted for fish oil.]()
By: BronxPhotogNavy beans, which can be substituted for fish oil. -
![Flaxseed, like fish oil, also provides essential fatty acids.]()
By: spline_xFlaxseed, like fish oil, also provides essential fatty acids. -
![Fish oil supplements are rich in healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, commonly called DHA.]()
By: Stephen VanHornFish oil supplements are rich in healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, commonly called DHA.
Discussion Comments
I've read mixed reviews about fish oil for acne. Some people benefited from it and others said it made their acne worse.
Apparently, fish oil supplements can make skin more oily and I'm guessing this is why it causes more acne in some people. But they didn't mention how much they were taking, so it might have to do with the dosage.
Those who benefited from it said their acne spots healed faster and were less painful. This is probably due to the anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil. Someone also said that it reduced his hyper-pigmentation.
I think I'm going to give fish oil a try. There is no other way to know if it will benefit me or not. I'm planning to take 1000mg per day. I think this is a good dose.
@donasmrs-- I'm not a doctor or anything so I don't know for sure. But I do think that there is a connection between a weak immune system and acne. And omega 3 amino acids support a healthy immune system.
When the immune system is weak, it is not able to kill bacteria and the body becomes prone to infections. Acne is also an infection. And getting enough nutrition and enough of the vital amino acids, vitamins and minerals is a must.
I also think that most Americans are deficient in Omega 3 because we don't eat much seafood and nuts like walnuts. So it wouldn't hurt to take some fish oil capsules.
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