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DHA is short for docosahexaenoic acid, and it is an omega-3 fatty acid necessary in the process of brain development. DHA also has an important role in heart health, improving vision, and in reducing inflammation. It is also responsible for the health of cell membranes, which directly affects your skin. Healthy cell membranes will give you healthy, soft and moist skin, whereas a weak membrane would cause dry, sad-looking skin.
DHA can help you have reduced sensitivity to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, so you are not as likely to have hyperpigmentation and other sun damage. It can soothe some effects of dermatitis, including dry and itchy skin. DHA has also been found to help with skin healing, and there are studies that indicate it may prevent skin cancer.
The commonest form of DHA is a fish oil supplement. Taking these can have some side effects, including nausea, halitosis and heartburn. There is also a possibility that ingesting fish oil may reduce your immune system’s activity, or interfere with your medication. Consult your doctor before taking DHA supplements. Topical application of fish oil doesn’t have any downsides other than an unpleasant smell.
There are several different types and causes of acne. Cystic acne occurs when pores in your skin are clogged with sebum, dirt, and dead skin cells. This creates a perfect opportunity for the growth of bacteria, which can cause an infection. The infection can grow deeper into the skin, leading to inflammation and redness, causing raised acne bumps (AKA cysts) with pus that can be tender to the touch.
Benzoyl peroxide is a topical agent for fighting bacteria and can be good for some type of cystic acne. Jojoba oil and rosehip oil are also good for reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria, and keeping in moisture for healthier skin. Ingredients that help exfoliate dead skin cells and increase new skin cell production, such as Vitamin A/Retinol, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, are good for treating cystic acne as well.
The secret to winning the battle against cystic acne is having the right regimen for your skin. Products that are too strong can be irritating and drying, causing your skin to overproduce oil, which leads to more acne. Picking the wrong active ingredients may have no effect. Using the right regimen for your acne type and skin tolerance can effectively clear acne while keeping your skin healthy and balanced.
DHA may be effective for cystic acne, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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