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Li

Linolenic Acid

Linolenic AcidBarrier

Essential omega-3 fatty acid that is incorporated into skin phospholipids and supports the skin's lipid barrier.

What it does

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an omega-3 fat the body cannot make. It is built into the skin's outer lipid layers, helping to hold the barrier together. Lab studies show ALA improves barrier function and brings the skin's lipid profile closer to normal. Most evidence comes from lab models; human topical trials for ALA alone are limited. In formulas, it arrives via plant oils such as rosehip or evening primrose.

The evidence, graded

strongAlpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an essential omega-3 fat the body cannot make. In reconstructed skin models, ALA is built into the skin's lipid layers, improving barrier function (shown by reduced permeation). A major review of omega fatty acids confirms ALA is a structural component of healthy skin that supports the barrier and helps control inflammation.Simard 2022 · Acta Biomater ↗

Graded per the methodology: strong · moderate · emerging · expert consensus. A weak source on a strong claim gets the weaker label.

Also known as

alpha-linolenic acid, ALA, omega-3 fatty acid

Pairs worth knowing

Ceramides · works together ↗Vitamin E (Tocopherol) · works together ↗Squalane · works together ↗Hyaluronic Acid · works together ↗

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