More than 25 percent of all adults suffer form acne at some point in their life, Acne.org reports. They add that hormones, clogged pores and stress are common causes of acne. If you have acne, talk to your doctor to see what treatment options are available to you. Mention if fish oil pills are proper to augment your prescribed acne treatment.
Fish Oil Pills
The active component of fish oil pills are omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fats are a certain form of dietary fat that your body cannot manufacture itself. Therefore, you need to consume omega-3 fats in the diet. Fish oil pills are rich in a especially potent form of omega-3s known as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. It's these two forms of omega-3s that are most beneficial for acne.
Connection
Inflammation in the pores can cause the blockages that contribute to acne formation, the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicines reports. They note that a particular pro-inflammatory protein known as Leukotriene B-4 is linked to acne. They add that blocking the activity of this one protein can reduce symptoms of acne by 70 percent. Omega-3 fats from fish oil are natural anti-inflammatory compounds.
Evidence
A research review paper published in the "Dermato-Endocrinology" journal published in September 2009 states that the link between omega-3s and acne is supported by several studies. They note that the typical Western diet consumes more omega-6 fats than omega-3 fats. Changing your diet to include more omega-3 fats and less omega-3 fats may improve symptoms of acne. Omega-3s also influence the activity of your sebaceous glands -- the glands responsible for sweat production. Overactive sebaceous glands can induce acne formation.
Considerations
While fish oil pills are an easy way to consume omega-3 fats, you can also obtain omega-3s from the diet. Fatty fish such as tuna and salmon are healthy sources of omega-3 fats. Also, fish oil pills can contain high levels of environmental contaminants, including mercury and lead. Opt for fish oil capsules that have been purified. Because fish oil pills can interfere with medications, check in with your doctor before taking them.
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