Improving Skin Texture and Tone: PG-1 and PG-3 (Prostaglandins)

Prostaglandins of series 2 reduce the quality of the skin's texture.

Series 1 and seres 3 prostaglandins allow for soft, better hydrated, silky and smooth skin.

Skin Care and Prostaglandin Series 1

The key building block for series 1 prostaglandin is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), found in high concentration in evening primrose.

The body can synthesize GLA from linoleic acid, however people with diabetes and eczema, among other conditions and factors, have a defect in the enzyme that makes this conversion.

The enyzme is called delta-6 desaturase enzyme.

Skin Care and Prostaglandin Series 3

Series 3 prostaglandins are formed from omega-3 unsaturated fats known as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

Rich Sources of EPA for Skin Care

• cold-water marine fish: salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, tuna;
• suitable EPA skin care supplements.

The body is also able to convert omega-3 unsaturated fat in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) into EPA to increase the production of Prostaglandin series 3.

• Flaxseed oil yields 58% alpha-linolenic acid.

Effects of EPA Supplements on Skin

• prostaglandin series 3 production and synthesis in epidermal cells is increased;
• skin texture and density improves;
• skin hydration improves;
• skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea are improved.

The timeframe for improvement after the commencement of supplementation is 45 to 75 days.

The rate of skin improvement is determined by the rate at which the epidermis replaces itself in entirety. Depending on your age, this takes anywhere from 45 to 75 days.

Given the time taken to achieve improvement, it is recommended to purchase essential fatty acid supplies three months in advance and to only use the purest and most active essential fatty acid supplements.

Additional Effects of Fish Oil on Skin

Fish oils, particularly those extracted from salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines and tuna, also contain DHA.

The body can also convert DHA into EPA, which adds to the potential for series 3 prostaglandin synthesis within the epidermal cells, leading to additional improvement of skin texture, tone and overall condition.

DHA also promotes the development and function of the brain, and is required for vision.