Whether they're streaked, brittle, or soft, our nails are subjected to various physical and chemical aggressions every day. Changes in their shape, texture, or appearance can also indicate a nutrient deficiency. To strengthen them and make them less susceptible to damage, various nutrients can be incorporated into our diet, including omega-6 fatty acids. Discover whether these fatty acids have an effect on nails.
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Omega-6: Do they truly have effects on nails?
Summary
Published June 5, 2024,
updated on June 5, 2024,
by
Kahina, Scientific Editor
—
3 min read
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Omega-6 in a nutshell.
The omega-6 fatty acids are part of the polyunsaturated fatty acids, characterized by a molecular chain with double chemical bonds. Some are considered essential because they are not synthesized by the body. Therefore, it is important to obtain them through diet. This is the case with linoleic acid. From this, other omega-6 fatty acids can be produced by the body, such as gamma-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, or dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid.
Omega-6 can be found in various foods: safflower oil, sunflower oil, corn oil, soybean oil, sunflower seeds, nuts, pumpkin seeds. Numerous studies have shown beneficial effects of consuming omega-6 for the skin, the hair. But what about the nails?
Can oral supplementation with omega-6 truly affect the nails?
There is often information circulating about the link between diet and nails. It is even said that the consumption of omega-6 can preserve the health of appendages, including nails.
However, it is important to emphasize that no study has demonstrated any beneficial effect of oral intake of omega-6 on nail health.
In the absence of concrete scientific evidence, we cannot take a stance on this matter. Before taking any steps for your nails, it is recommended to discuss this with your doctor or a health professional to find an approach suitable for your situation.
Sources
RODRIGUES H.G. & al. Wound Healing and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: From Inflammation to Repair. Mediators of Inflammation (2018).
MOKOS Z.B. & al. Omega-3 versus Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory skin diseases. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2020).
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