Choosing essential fatty acids (EFAs) for your skincare routine can do wonders for your skin’s health and appearance. Each type of EFA offers unique benefits, so you might want to focus on one over another depending on your skin’s needs. These acids are crucial for maintaining the skin’s lipid barrier, the outermost layer that keeps your skin protected and hydrated. Since our bodies can’t produce these EFAs on their own, we need to get them through skincare products.
Linoleic Acid (LA):
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Hydration and Barrier Function: This omega-6 fatty acid is key to maintaining your skin’s lipid barrier, locking in moisture, and protecting against environmental damage.
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Acne Prevention: It helps regulate sebum production and unclogs pores, making it a great choice for acne-prone skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties also soothe irritation.
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Hyperkeratinization Prevention: It normalizes the shedding of skin cells, preventing clogged pores and the formation of blackheads and whiteheads.
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Found in: Sunflower, rosehip, black cumin, black currant, and cloudberry seed oils.
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Try: Bare (coming soon!) and Shield by Cult of Reason.
Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA):
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Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Known for its strong anti-inflammatory effects, GLA is fantastic for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
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Skin Elasticity and Smoothness: It supports skin elasticity and smoothness, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles while maintaining the skin’s structural integrity.
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Found in: Black currant seed oil.
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Try: Shield by Cult of Reason.
Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA):
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Omega-3 Benefits: ALA is an omega-3 fatty acid with exceptional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, protecting the skin from UV and pollution damage.
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Soothing and Healing: It promotes healing and calms irritated skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin types. ALA also enhances cell turnover and repair.
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Found in: Rosehip, cloudberry, sunflower, black currant seed oils.
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Try: Bare (coming soon!) and Shield by Cult of Reason.
Adding products rich in linoleic acid, GLA, and ALA to your skincare routine can address a variety of concerns, from dryness and inflammation to acne and aging. Plus, these EFAs fortify the skin barrier and aid in wound healing.
Make sure your skin gets the nourishment it needs to stay healthy, radiant, and resilient!