Therapeutic Benefits of Topical Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Skin Diseases and Cosmetics: An Updated Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Oral supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) has shown beneficial effects in some dermatologic diseases (i.e., atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, burns), but the actual effect of local application of ω-3 PUFAs for improving skin health is still under investigation. Aims: This paper systematically reviewed the current articles regarding the use of topical ω-3 PUFAs in the treatment of skin diseases to evaluate its efficacy and safety. Methods: The review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) recommendations. Studies in which ω-3 PUFAs were administered as oral treatments, those with a reduced or unknown ω-3 PUFAs composition, and those using with skin fish grafts were excluded. Results: In skin models of psoriasis, wounds, dermatitis, and melanoma, topical ω-3 PUFAs showed an overall beneficial effect associated with the anti-inflammatory properties of these compounds. Furthermore, none of the studies reported cases of skin irritation, cytotoxicity, or any adverse events. Conclusions: The increasing number of studies conducted on topical treatments with ω-3 PUFAs and the existing evidence suggest that ω-3 PUFAs could be a promising option as an adjuvant or complementary treatment in managing several dermatological conditions. However, there is still a lack of consensus about the optimal dosage, molecules, or delivery methods of ω-3 PUFAs; consequently, more clinical studies are needed.