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When you think about having healthy hair, the first idea that pops into your head is hitting the hair care aisle at the supermarket or beauty. Surprisingly, not many people consider making changes and additions to their diet when it comes to improving hair growth and strength. After all, you are what you eat—and that phrase applies to your locks too. On that note, one of the best nutrients you can provide your hair is omega-3!
From slow growth and weak strands to dullness and hair fall, there’s no hair health issue you can’t address with a good diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are immensely popular for their support of essential body functions, some of which can explain why these aid in better hair health.
Omega-3 fatty acids DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid), and ALA (Alpha-linoleic acid) are not naturally produced by the human body, which is why omega-3-rich foods in and omega-3 supplements are vital for hair health.
Let’s dive into the specifics of what it is about omega-3 that makes it a must-have nutrient in your hair care routine!
For starters, omega-3 fatty acids have antioxidants, which protect your cells against cell-damaging free radicals. Free radicals not only affect vital organs, increasing the risk of chronic diseases but also cause cell damage that affects your scalp and hair.
Weak tresses, easy breakage and hair fall, and dullness are often a result of cell damage. High antioxidant levels in omega-3 fatty acids keep your hair healthy by fixing the damage caused by cell deterioration due to the natural progression of aging, dietary reasons, or external factors. As a result, your follicles become healthier, and new strands grow at a good rate and come out stronger!
Poor scalp health equals poor hair growth rate and hair integrity. Skin issues such as eczema and psoriasis do not just affect the skin, but also the scalp—caused by inflammation. One of the reasons behind excess dandruff is also inflammation. And omega-3 is coveted for its anti-inflammatory properties.
By adding omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, your body gets help regulating free radicals that cause scalp damage. While omega 3 does not reverse chronic skin diseases, it does manage symptoms. Also, omega-3 fatty acids increase scalp moisture levels, reducing dryness and itchiness. Not only do you avoid physically damaging your hair by scratching, but also get the additional bonus of fewer irritants to make hair smoother.
Given that omega 3 ‘fatty’ acids have ‘fats’ in them, you get amazing hydrating effects. Omega 3, best taken in the form of fish oil liquid or fish oil softgels, can improve skin barrier function. Not only does omega-3 introduce additional moisture to the scalp, but also seals in existing moisture and prevents irritants.
So, while you add that nourishing conditioner to hydrate your hair from the outside, add omega 3 to your diet to hydrate it from within.
Omega-3s are well known for their heart health benefits. These help by lowering triglycerides and clearing up arteries. As a result of unhindered blood flow, not only do you get better cardiac function, but also the rest of your organs become healthier due to a great flow of nutrition.
As a result, omega-3 fatty acids not only help with growing new hair but also reduce hair fall. With regular consumption of omega-3, you may be able to see more luscious and longer hair in just a few months!
Finally, one of the great effects of omega-3 is protection from UV rays. No matter your hair type, ultraviolet rays cause strain on its structure. These harmful rays age your skin and increase the likelihood of skin disease. Additionally, these dry out your scalp and hair. Omega-3 supplements are often recommended by skincare experts to improve skin quality. The great part is that you can get the same benefits for your hair and scalp.
By improving your scalp’s barrier, omega-3 helps it withstand the effects of harsh sunlight. Additionally, if you have present sun damage, omega-3 fatty acids may also aid in restoring your strands back to healthy self. You acquire hair that is less prone to becoming dull, as well as breakage and hair fall.
You know how omega-3 affects hair health. The question is how do you use it for maximum benefits?
Consuming omega-3 is one way to do this. You can get your omega-3 via fatty fish, such as salmon or herrings. Or, you can go for supplements, as these are a more calculated way of taking EPA and DHA. Omega-3 is usually available as fish oil liquid or fish oil capsules, and you can choose whichever feels more appealing and convenient to use.
Another way you can use omega-3 for improving hair quality is applying it directly. You can mix fish oil with coconut oil or olive oil, or any other hair oil that suits you. Use equal amounts of these oils, or make a mixture that’s one part of fish oil with two parts of your regular hair oil. This way, you can minimize that fishy odour!
Apply this mixture to your scalp and roots, let it sit for 30 minutes, and wash off with shampoo. Make sure to wash well to take out all the smell and oiliness!
Omega-3 fish oil fatty acids are a much underrated ingredient in your haircare routine! If you want to gain its benefits, start by taking omega-3 fish oil. If you can stand the smell and do not have allergies, apply it to your scalp. Fish oil will protect, moisturize, and enhance the appearance of your strands—making them the envy of others!
Of course, know that you cannot use omega-3 as a complete treatment for your hair problems! Nutritious food, hair products made for your hair type, and occasional TLC—all these are vital in improving growth. Use your omega-3 fish oil as a supportive ingredient in a well-rounded dietary regime and lifestyle. As a result, you’ll get your dreamed-of healthy locks in no time!