Fatty acids are absolutely crucial to skin health. As one of the main components in the skin’s moisture barrier, fatty acids are found throughout the epidermis and dermis.
Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 (alpha-linolenic) and omega-6 (linoleic), have a wide range of beneficial effects to the skin. They can mitigate UV damage, reduce the signs of aging, decrease sensitivity, and increase overall skin health. They can also lighten sun spots and other UV-induced hyperpigmentation. Borage seed oil, perilla seed oil, and cranberry seed oil contain 60-75% linoleic/alpha-linolenic acids each, giving Fortify its omega 3 and 6 components.
Oleic acid (omega-9) is a powerful moisturizer and skin-softener. Most of Fortify’s oleic acid comes from Camellia japonica oil, which has been shown to increase skin health and potentially reduce the signs of aging; it also has significant anti-inflammatory effects. Fortify’s other major source of oleic acid, marula oil, possesses strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers.