EFA's... They're essential!

Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s) are essential nutrients necessary for life. The reason they label them essential is because the body is unable to produce them intrinsically; meaning they must be obtained through the diet. EFA’s are integral to the proper structure and function of the cell. They form the lipid bilayer of the cell allowing it to be fluid and flexible in order to increase the absorption of nutrients and excretion of waste material. In addition to nourishing the skin and improving its texture EFA’s also form part of the acid mantle which is the skins protective barrier against microbes and environmental damage. They keep the cell moist and reduce the amount of transepidermal water loss giving the appearance of plump skin. 

Systemically, essential fatty acids play a pivotal role in a plethora of metabolic functions including hormone production, nerve conductivity, brain and cognitive function, cardiovascular health and immune function. 

Supplementation with Omega fatty acids is imperative to skin function and appearance. It has been shown to exert protection from photodamage and the ageing process. By way of modulating the ratio of pro and anti-inflammatory signalling molecules and their corresponding metabolites to significantly influence skin function and appearance. 

We recommend EFA supplementation for most of our client’s skin concerns. In addition to the above-mentioned benefits, as they work to improve the quality of the oil produced by the skin. This allows the oil to flow freely through the pores and across the skin to form the acid mantle (the protective barrier). When sebum is too thick it becomes trapped in the pores with dead skin cells and forms blackheads and congestion. A build-up of congestion is the perfect environment to harbour opportunistic bacteria such as C-Acnes bacteria which surface and cause significant breakouts. 

For our clients with dry skin the EFA’s are just as important. Without optimal oil production the skins barrier becomes impaired, and this leads to premature aging of the skin as it loses excess moisture and is exposed to harsh environmental damage.  

EFA’s are also potently anti-inflammatory. They modulate the inflammatory response in both dermal and epidermal layers of the skin. Supplementation is crucial in any inflammatory condition of the skin such as eczema, dermatitis and rosacea. They alleviate symptoms associated with skin sensitivity and inflammatory presentations. 

At With Grace Skin Management, we stock only the highest quality and ethically sourced EFA supplements; offering vegan and fish derived options to cater for all your dietary and ethical preferences.