Prostaglandins which pose problems for Skin Care and Treatment

There is a category of prostaglandin which is deleterious to the skin's overall condition, with obvious repercussions for its texture, density, overall smoothness and dermal hydration.

Prostaglandin series 2, otherwise known as PG-2 are formed from unsaturated fats (known scientifically as arachidonic acid).

Unsaturated fats are richly concentrated in high-fat meats and dairy products.

An over-consumption of linoleic acid (also an unsaturated fat and present in high concentrations in corn oil, sunflower seed oil, blended vegetable oils and safflower oil) will further encourage the conversion of prostaglandin series 2 into arachidonic acid, further increasing the body's serum concentrations of this harmful hormone-like substance.

A typical North-American diet is rich in unsaturated fats and linoleic acid, and thus the typical American presents with high levels of prostaglandin series 2 hormones derived from systemic arachidonic acid.

Effects of High Levels of Prostaglandin Series 2 on Skin Texture

High levels of series 2 prostaglandins are found in the epidermal cells of people with substantial intakes of unsaturated fats and linoleic acid.

The excess synthesis of these substances within the epidermal cells gives rise to:

• a skin texture which is rougher, drier, less firm and typically thinner than would be the case if a diet where series 2 prostaglandins are minimized were to be followed;
• a general deterioration in the overall condition of the skin, and a worsening of skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis and eczema.
• a higher incidence of skin inflammation, and faster skin aging;
• a higher incidence of skin cancers

Effects of Prostaglandin Series 2 on Skin Cells

The process whereby arachidonic acids, provided by saturated fats and linoleic acid, are converted into series 2 prostaglandins causes an acceleration of the rate at which skin cells divide, producing:

• accelerated skin aging;
• a higher incidence of skin cancers, particularly aggressive skin cancers

Effects of Essential Fatty Acids on Skin Cells Affected by Prostaglandin Series 2

Omega-3 and omega-6 fats, derived from evening primrose supplements and fish oils, slow the rate of skin cell division, lessening the rate of skin aging and skin cancers, by enhancing the production of series 3 prostaglandins.

Series 3 prostaglandins will slow the rate of skin cell mutations and overall skin inflammation even under exposure to ultraviolet light.

Pertinent Skin Facts on Prostaglandins in Summary

• suitable essential fatty acid supplements will enhance skin texture, dermal hydration, firmness and overall condition;
• suitable essential fatty acid supplements will prevent or lessen the impact of inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea, as well as some others, including eczema and psoriasis;
• suitable essential fatty acid supplements slow the rate of skin aging;
• suitable essential fatty acid supplements guard against the development of skin cancers, however of course are no substitute for sunscreens.

Although high potency and pure essential fatty acid supplements are of great assistance, their effect is curtailed when not supported by an appropriate anti-aging skin care regimen.

Please review the section on essential fatty acid supplementation and skin care for full information on this topic.