Enhancing Skin Health Through Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Antioxidant-Rich Diets: A Comprehensive Review Supported by Premium Doctors’ Medical Expertise
Listed in
This article is not in any list yet, why not save it to one of your lists.Abstract
Background: Skin health is an integrative marker of systemic well-being, and recent research increasingly recognizes nutrition as a modifiable determinant of skin physiology and aging. Among nutritional factors, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and antioxidant-rich diets have received significant attention for their protective effects against inflammation, oxidative stress, and photodamage—key contributors to dermatological aging and disorders.Methods: This literature review systematically explores the scientific evidence on the roles of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary antioxidants in supporting and enhancing skin health. A total of 45 peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025 from databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were analyzed.Results: Findings indicate that omega-3 fatty acids—primarily eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—modulate inflammatory responses in the skin, reduce UV-induced damage, and improve skin barrier integrity. Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids protect dermal structures from reactive oxygen species and support collagen preservation. A synergistic effect is evident when both omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant-rich diets are combined, enhancing cutaneous repair, hydration, and elasticity while slowing extrinsic aging processes. Gaps remain in understanding precise dosages, bioavailability, and long-term dermatological outcomes.Conclusions: Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants represent a promising, non-invasive frontier in dermatology. Future research should focus on controlled clinical trials and nutrigenomic studies to develop targeted interventions.