Introducing Linoleic Acid: Your Skin’s New Hydrating BFF
WHETHER YOU’RE SUFFERING FROM DRYNESS OR ACNE, LINOLEIC ACID MIGHT JUST BE THE SOLUTION TO YOUR SKIN’S WOES.
Skincare ingredients come and go, but the good ones are forever. Linoleic acid falls into that second category. This little-known powerhouse of an ingredient can make a massive difference to your complexion, and – unlike some of the skincare trends hitting the headlines – it isn’t super irritating. Double-win.
So, what is linoleic acid? And how do you add it to your routine? Here’s our comprehensive guide to your skin’s next BFF.
LINOLEIC ACID 101
When someone says “acid,” you probably think exfoliant. Linoleic acid, on the other hand, is an essential fatty acid packed with omega-6 that’s typically used as an emollient – AKA something that softens, soothes, and boosts your skin’s moisture levels.
This fatty acid is one of the many lipids naturally in your skin’s oil. Also known as vitamin F, you typically consume it through foods such as nuts, seeds, and the good vegetable oils. When everything’s balanced and functioning, it plays an integral part in strengthening your skin barrier to keep the bad stuff out (and the good stuff in).
Studies have found that those suffering from acne often don’t have enough linoleic acid in their skin, which is why some people choose to tackle their blemishes by applying it topically. Odds are, you already have some products containing linoleic acid in your skincare cabinet; the likes of rosehip oil, hemp oil, borage oil, evening primrose oil, and safflower oil are all rich in it.
the BENEFITS OF linoleic acid
Hydration
Fats like linoleic acid are hydration heroes. They lock in moisture, preventing the water loss that causes dryness and dullness. That equals soft, smooth, glowy skin.
Tackling acne
Boosting your skin’s levels of linoleic acid has proven perks for acne. In the 1970s, scientists found that skin without enough linoleic acid tends to let more bacteria into the hair follicles, clogging your pores and creating pimples. Nearly 30 years later, a study found that linoleic acid reduces the size of pimples by 25% in as little as a month.
Reducing inflammation
It has a recorded history of soothing inflammation, which can, in turn, aid with inflammatory skin conditions such as dermatitis and psoriasis.
Fading hyperpigmentation
Some studies have found that linoleic acid could help even out your skin tone and fade hyperpigmentation – including pimples, melasma, and sunspots – thanks to its ability to inhibit excess melanin production.
linoleic acid Products We love
1. ESPA Replenishing Face Treatment Oil
Best for… Dull skin and dryness
Lathered over your face, ESPA’s Replenishing Face Treatment Oil uses a formula rich in linoleic acid to nourish and soften the skin. Used daily (and preferably on damp skin), it contributes to a fresh, dewy glow with improved texture in the long run. The scent is absolutely heavenly – think indulgent spa break – and, as is usually the case with ESPA products, it makes for the perfect end-of-day treat to lull you to sleep. Our top tip: apply less than you think you need. A little goes a long way.
2. Dermalogica UltraCalming Barrier Repair
Best for… Dryness, sensitive skin
This moisturiser is as gentle as can be, combining evening primrose oil and emollient silicones to strengthen your skin barrier. Renowned for its kindness to sensitive skin types, it feels deceptively light on the skin for all the hydrating it’s doing in the background. This is one of our personal favourites for cold weather, making flaky, peeling skin a thing of winter's past.
Best for… Reducing inflammation, boosting collagen production, hydration
A cocktail of blue yarrow, marine algae, coconut, rosehip, and geranium blossoms, EARTH HARBOR’s Laguna Replenishing Body Serum is designed for use all over the body. After showering or bathing, take five minutes out of your day to massage it into the skin, starting from feet to heart, then hands to heart, and finally neck to heart. Not only will you smell divine, but this fast-absorbing oil leaves skin soft, supple, and smooth. Perfect for tackling every day irritations like razor bumps, eczema, and winter dryness.
4. CLARITY RX Glimmer of Hope Shimmering Facial Oil
Best for… Dullness, texture, sun damage, and dryness
Another perfectly formulated oil packed with all the organic linoleic acid you need to improve the radiance of your skin. Thanks to its hydrating powers, the CLARITY RX Glimmer of Hope Shimmering Facial Oil is often recommended for those with mature complexions. Deeply hydrating and soothing – but still light enough to avoid leaving a greasy finish. The perfect combo.
P. S If you haven’t heard already, we set up shop to help lessen the impact of our beauty routines on the environment and you can find all these products there.
Intrigued? Head to thisisbeauty.com to find out more.
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