5 Ways Fish Oil Helps Protect You From UV Rays

Fish oil, an amazing source of omega 3 fatty acids, is a long-standing nutrient with an array of health benefits. You may have heard some of the common perks of adding fish oil to the diet, such as heart health. One of the lesser-known advantages of fish oil is its incredible ability to protect and improve skin health. More specifically, it’s beneficial for your skin in terms of protection against and recovery from the effects of ultraviolet rays.

Critical UVA Effects & Fish Oil To The Defense

Did you know that an FDA study recommends consuming fish oil every single day? Those gem-like softgels or omega-3 multivitamin capsules accomplish more than you think!

In addition to helping minimize the risk of cardiac issues, kidney disease, and a number of chronic inflammatory diseases, omega 3 fish oil also keeps your skin healthy in the face of UV rays. 

In recent years, there has been a noticeable rise in UV light exposure and the resulting health issues on a global scale. While the depletion of the ozone layer is the top contributing factor, it’s not the sole culprit. Your sunny vacations and the beach tanning sessions to acquire that radiant summer glow also play a role!

If you suspect you’ve been getting too much exposure to direct sunlight, whether daily or even occasionally, consider adding fish oil to your diet. Here are five reasons why fish oil is incredibly effective in the face of UVA exposure.

• Helps Skin Withstand Harsh Environment

The membranes of the cells that make up your body’s various systems undergo a remarkable transformation with the presence of omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil. 

To be more specific, the essential fatty acids, EPA and DHA, play a vital role in the composition of the cell membrane. Additionally, these facilitate the efficient exchange of nutrients within the cell. Given that your cells are responsible for producing the active components and nourishment for healthy skin tissue the role of omega 3 fatty acids is vital. 

That said, your skin cells have just as much to gain from omega 3. Fish oil aids in regulating your skin’s oil production, promoting optimal hydration, and even reducing breakouts. 

Based on this capability, fish oil contributes to the formation of a protective skin barrier, leaving your skin radiant in the face of harsh environments—including direct sunlight. Your skin withstands exposure to UV rays better as the cells continue to function optimally when fueled by omega 3 fish oil.

• Reduces Tendency For Sunburns

Omega 3’s anti-inflammatory properties are one of its best-known traits. Consequently, it also helps regulate skin inflammation.

When you expose your skin to excessive sunlight, you run the risk of getting sunburn, which is a major factor in developing skin cancer. Medically speaking, sunburn is an inflammatory reaction that causes redness, swelling, and the shedding of dead skin cells. 

However, thanks to the amazing properties of omega 3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements, you can work toward preventing inflammation. That’s not all; for any ongoing damage, or any inflammatory processes that are taking place in your skin’s layers, you can turn to omega 3 as a means of relief. 

In a nutshell, fish oil can help reduce your likelihood of getting sunburned. So, make sure to include this super nutrient in your diet if you desire healthier skin!

• Soothes Redness & Itchiness 

Fish oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can also assist in reducing redness and itchiness associated with skin sensitivity to sunlight. Skin experts explain that the fatty oils in omega 3 fish oil supplements help repair the protective barrier of the skin cells. Consequently, your skin becomes stronger and any damage to the DNA can be reduced. 

What’s more amazing is that fish oil is very versatile. In order to help sensitive skin in the case of UV protection, you don’t have to stick to topical treatment. Use fish oil liquid from a bottle or pop open a softgel. Apply the oil to your skin to soothe red and itchy skin. 

However, use only a small amount of fish oil, and make sure your skin is damp. Plus, avoid sunlight exposure right after application. Another precaution stated by experts is to check for allergies and skin sensitivity—to the fish oil itself. In that case, you can look for omega 3 supplements specifically designed for easily irritated skin, one that absorbs easily to enhance its effectiveness.

• Avoid Premature Skin Aging

One of the effects of UV rays on your skin is the premature appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Well, now you have another secret to youthful skin—fish oil!

Research shows that EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) in fish oil can enhance your body’s natural defense against UV rays. Think of this fatty acid as an internal sunscreen due to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, know that fish oil is not a substitute for applying sunscreen, especially when going outside during the day. 

Nevertheless, incorporating fish oil into your diet can provide an additional layer of protection. Taking omega 3 fish oil supplements can help delay sunburn, and minimize signs of sun-induced DNA damage and photo-aging. Once again, you can apply fish oil topically too and double your effort for a smooth skin!

• May Aid In Cancer Prevention

Although many major studies on fish oil’s role in skin cancer are ongoing—with further research necessary—the current reports show promising potential.  

According to reviews, increasing omega 3 fish oil intake may provide an additional protective benefit. In a 2003 double-blind study, researchers found that subjects who consumed 4 grams of EPA daily experienced a decrease in early cancer markers, such as sunburns. 

Hence the reason researchers believe that long-term supplementation of EPA-rich omega 3 can potentially reduce the risk of skin cancer. In a more recent double-blind study, there was a comparison of the effects of 5 grams of omega 3 fish oil supplementation versus. Out of the 79 participants, those who took omega 3 and were present for a certain amount of time in the sun had a 50% lower rate of immunosuppression than those who took the placebo.

Bottom Line: Fish Oil For UV Protection? 

Fish oil is a powerful ally in protecting your skin from the harmful impact of UV rays. It serves as a shield against the negative consequences of sun exposure, like sunburn and tanning. However, you still need to stay diligent about your daily SPF and staying in the shade during harsh sunlight!