Fish oil refers to the oil derived from the tissue of oily fish, such as sardines, herring, and tuna. In some cases, people also consider oil derived from liver of white fishes like cod to be ‘fish oil’ as well.
Fish oils are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which is the primary cause behind it being good for health. Now, the use of fish oil for acne treatment is often recommended. As it turns out, there are a lot of benefits of fish oil for skin, and it can help to treat conditions like acne
Acne, scientifically known as Acne vulgaris, is primarily caused when the pores of your skin are clogged by oils (sebum) or dead skin cells.
This can be caused by various reasons like a bacterial infection, hormonal imbalances, or even unhealthy lifestyle. If you are suffering from acne, then you already know the effects it has on your health and of course, your self-esteem.
So, if you are looking for a natural treatment for this ailment, then using fish oil for acne might be a good option.
[Also Read: Natural Remedies to Treat Acne]
Health Benefits of Fish Oil (Omega 3 fatty acids)
- It reduces cholesterol levels
- It helps in weight loss
- Fish oil is good for the brain and also reduces the risk of dementia
- It is suitable for the eyes
- Fish oil is especially beneficial for pregnant women
Using Fish Oil for Acne – How Does it Help?
Fish oils are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. This Omega 3 fatty acid is what makes it beneficial to use fish oil for acne.
A recent study has shown that omega 3 fatty can significantly contribute to the reduction of skin lesions found in patients suffering from acne.
Research conducted by scientists at the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, California, has shown that a majority of patients suffering from severe to moderate breakouts of acne have witnessed significant reduction in pimples and other symptoms associated with acne.
So, it is a proven fact that using fish oil for acne is indeed quite beneficial.
[Also Read: 8 Effective Supplements for Acne]
Fish Oils Help to Regulate Testosterone
So, how does fish oil work to reduce acne? Well, scientists have put forward several theories. For example, omega 3 fatty acids help the body to produce prostaglandins, which regulates the level of testosterone.
A high level of testosterone is often associated with increased sebum (oil) production in the body, and that clogs the pores. In the long run, this often results in acne. So, using fish oil for acne helps to reduce testosterone levels in both man and woman, and hence, it is effective to control acne issues.
[Also Read: Essential Oils for Acne]
Fish Oils Reduces Sebum Production
A lot of people think that since acne itself is caused by excess oil production, taking more oils in the form of fish oil would only worsen the issue. However, on the contrary, omega 3 fatty acids present in fish oils regulate sebum production in the body. This is another reason why it is beneficial to use fish oil for acne.
Fish Oils Help in Reducing Acne Scars
Using fish oils for acne can also help you with the scars, especially with icepick and boxcar type scars. An ice pick scar is a name given to deep depressions. On the other hand, boxcar scars refer to more extensive depressions.
Such depressions are caused when the body produces too little collagen as a response to acne. One of the most significant fish oil benefits for skin is that it contains long chain fatty acid EPA. This compound helps the body to increase collagen production and therefore, help with reducing the scars.
One of the most significant fish oil benefits for skin is that it works as an excellent antioxidant. This effectively makes fish oil work as an anti-inflammatory agent. This also helps in reducing acne scars.
[Also Read: Best Vitamin C for Acne]
How to Use Fish Oil for Acne
One of the easiest ways to use fish oil for acne is taking it orally. There are several supplements of fish oil available on the market. You can take 2 to 4 pills every day to have the desired effect.
However, it all depends on the level of omega 3 fatty acids present in the pills. A quality fish oil pill would have a little more of 1000mg of omega 3 fatty acids. So, you must check the ingredients before you buy fish oil pills.
You can also apply fish oil directly on the scars as well. You can rub the oil in gentle circular motions over the areas affected by acne. The best time to use it would be at night that would allow the oil to work its magic overnight.
If you are applying it during the daytime, make sure you give it at least 6 hours before you wash it off with soapy water.
However, there are examples where fish oil have had limited or no effect on patients. So, fish oil should not be used as a replacement for proper medication. If you are suffering from a severe case of acne, it is probably a better idea to speak with your dermatologist, get adequate remedy, and then supplement that with fish oil.
FAQs
1. Are there any side effects of using fish oil for acne?
Well, taking fish oils within the prescribed daily dosage would not usually have any harmful side effects. However, excessive intake of omega 3 fatty acids can cause the following issues:
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Low blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Bleeding
2. How long does it take to affect acne?
It usually takes around 2-3 months for fish oil to affect acne. In some cases, it might take a little more time.
3. Would any fish oil work?
Most commercially available fish oils would work as they don’t generally contain any additives. Just try to go for a reliable product, and you will be safe. You can even ask your doctor for recommendations.
Fish oil is packed with goodness, and that makes it one of the most effective ways to treat acne. Several people from all across the world have got benefits by using fish oil for acne.
However, there are examples where fish oil have had limited or no effect on patients. So, fish oil should not be used as a replacement for proper medication. If you are suffering from a severe case of acne, it is probably a better idea to speak with your dermatologist, get adequate remedy, and then supplement that with fish oil.
