As aging skin becomes thinner and less elastic, wrinkles are the inevitable result. Medically known as rhytides, these unsightly creases in the skin can range in severity from fine surface lines to deep grooves, and are worsened by exposure to the sun, smoking and habitual facial expressions. Herbalists and natural beauty experts have long advised that adding flaxseed oil to your diet can help alleviate wrinkles, and there is some clinical research supporting the ability of essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil to smooth and moisturize skin.
Features
The flax plant -- botanically known as Linum usitatissimum -- features pale-green alternating leaves and delicate blue flowers that bloom from late winter through early fall. Indigenous to Europe, flax presently grows widely in Canada and the Northwestern United States. Human uses of flax are rooted in antiquity; as early as 10,000 B.C., the plant was used as a fabric source for linen. Flax oil -- also known as linseed oil -- is derived from the seeds of the plant, and has been used as a skin moisturizer and laxative, as well as in folk remedies for coughs, colds and urinary tract infections.
Constituents and Effects
Flaxseed oil is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and omega-3 fatty acids; these essential fatty acids make up 70 percent of the oil. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects, and can play a role in preventing heart disease and arthritis. Another 18 percent of flaxseed oil is taken up by monounsaturated acids; a small amount of saturated fatty acids account for the rest. Drugs.com -- which provides peer-reviewed medical information to consumers -- notes that the omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil have antioxidant effects, along with possible chemoprotective properties. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities of ALA and the essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil may help improve the overall health of your skin, decreasing roughness and scaling and helping to prevent reddening and skin irritation.
Research
In a clinical study published in the November 2010 issue of the journal "Skin Pharmacology and Physiology," researchers found that dietary supplementation with flaxseed oil caused significant decreases in transepidermal water loss and sensitivity, while increasing skin smoothness and hydration. Safflower oil -- also an object of study -- caused some improvements in skin, but was inferior to flaxseed oil. The research team concluded that daily intake of flaxseed oil can modulate skin condition.
Considerations
Flaxseed oil, available in liquid and softgel capsules, may be taken in dosages of 1 to 2 tbsp. per day. To avoid spoiling, keep it in a dark container in the refrigerator. Drugs.com advises purchasing flaxseed oil only from reputable companies that can certify that the product is free of contaminants and heavy metals. Flaxseed oil can slow down the absorption of other supplements and medications, and should not be taken at the same time; it can also interact with prescription drugs. Don't use flaxseed oil if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Finally, you should consult with your doctor before undertaking a flaxseed oil supplement regimen.
References
- Drugs.com: Flax
- "Skin Pharmacology and Physiology"; Supplementation of Flaxseed Oil Diminishes Skin Sensitivity and Improves Skin Barrier Function and Condition; K. Neukam, et al.; November 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Flaxseed Oil; May 2010
- Medical News Today; What Are Wrinkles? What Causes Wrinkles?; Christian Nordqvist; December 2009
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