Can Flax Oil Improve Your Skin?

Flax field in Germany.
Six weeks of taking flaxseed oil supplements and I do not believe there is a noticeable difference in my skin's health or appearance. Still, I think I will continue adding flax oil to my diet, not only for my skin but also for overall health. Maybe they will never make a shred of difference, but, they are in my opinion one of the most approachable and all around beneficial natural supplements that you can choose when it comes to combining health and beauty. I will spend my hard earned dollars in the hopes that over the long-term the omega-3 fatty acids are nourishing and strengthening my cells and doing something for my skin. As a short-term experiment, however, I didn't notice a difference. You can read about the start of my experience with Flaxseed Supplements here. 

Flax Oil vs. Collagen for Healthy Skin

Comparing flax oil and the collagen supplements (my first personal skin health test), I found that taking the collagen did actually make a difference. I could tell that my skin was slightly softer and my hair definitely felt stronger. As I can't see how flax oil will conflict with taking other supplements or herbs, I will keep on with the nourishing oil. I also really liked using the little capsules full of nutrients and moisturizing fatty acids in my face mask recipes! 

I will go for the collagen again, but only every few months. Honestly, a bottle of collagen supplements a year, which will last for one or two months, is enough I think. A healthy diet and exercise will do way more for your skin. Also, I don't feel comfortable combining collagen with other supplements. With flax oil, I'm not worried about taking something else at the same time.

All Nourishing Fats Are Good Fats

Do I recommend taking flaxseed oil? Both the oil and the actual flax seeds, which I always throw into my homemade muffins and breads, are loaded with a unique set of nutrients. Flax oil has the omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for inflammation and cell health. The seeds contain lignans, phytonutrients that have a range of benefits from regulating hormones to improving immune health. I do think adding both the oil and the seeds to your diet is a smart, healthy move. You don't even have to take supplements. You can use flaxseed oil to make salad dressings (oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper!). Don't cook with it. High temperatures degrade the oil. 

I don't, however, believe it will make a remarkable difference in your skin, at least in the short term. Boosting your diet with healthy fats could certainly help over the years. Flax oil isn't the only source of course. Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are great for omega-3 fatty acids. Olives, coconuts, all nuts, seeds, and nourishing oils supply their own specific blend of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids. Try flax, try hemp oil, switch it up if you are like me and love to try something new.

If flax oil doesn't keep your skin supple and wrinkle-free, maybe it will help with other things like joint health or improved mood (I did actually notice a mood improvement, which was unexpected). Do you take flaxseed oil supplements for your skin, or possibly for a specific health issue?
Mountain Rose Herbs. A herbs, health and harmony c

Disclaimer

While I love my skin, I am not actually a dermatologist or a medical professional. The information on this site is not meant to treat or diagnose any health issues.