Oslo, August 23, 2024: 

Two recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlight the benefits of krill oil for skin health. These studies focused on the impact of krill oil supplementation on skin barrier function, hydration, and elasticity in healthy adults. The results were significant: krill oil (1g and 2g daily doses) improved skin hydration, reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and boosted skin elasticity compared to a placebo.

Researchers also observed a direct correlation between these improvements and an increased Omega-3 Index, showcasing the important role of omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA, in skin health.

"For years we have looked at how krill oil, with its phospholipids and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, can positively impact skin health,” said Katina Handeland, PhD, Director R&D, Human Nutrition. “The skin is the body’s largest organ, and its health and hydration rely on lipid and ceramide levels, which are influenced by nutrition. Omega-3 EPA and DHA modulate the lipid composition of skin cell membranes and their associated lipid mediators, thereby supporting skin barrier function. Phospholipids have a unique molecular function enabling them to both attract and repel water, which enables them to retain water within the skin. Additionally, both dietary essential fatty acids and phospholipids have shown to give a positive impact on skin ceramide levels, which are known to decline with age. The positive results in these two trials help validate evidence from previous research by showing the positive impact krill oil has in improving skin barrier function and moisture retention.”

Beauty from within

Krill oil’s phospholipids and long-chain omega-3s contribute to skin barrier function by improving hydration and supporting cell membranes. The unique ability of phospholipids to attract and retain water helps lock in moisture, while essential fatty acids positively impact skin ceramide levels, which naturally decline with age.

The findings further solidify krill oil’s role in promoting healthy skin and improving moisture retention, offering a natural solution for combating dry skin and aging concerns.

Study Methods and Results:

Two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot studies were conducted in healthy adults with normal to slightly dry skin (baseline TEWL levels were healthy).

Study 1: 51 participants took 1g of Superba Boost® krill oil or a placebo daily.
Study 2: 50 participants consumed 2g of Superba Boost® krill oil or a placebo daily.

Results were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Both krill oil groups showed significant, dose-dependent increases in the Omega-3 Index (EPA+DHA in red blood cells) compared to the placebo groups. The krill oil groups also demonstrated significant reductions in TEWL (transepidermal water loss) along with notable improvements in skin hydration and elasticity. The research was led by Aker BioMarine, in collaboration with the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing at the University of Sunderland, UK.

Key Study Findings:

• Significant improvement in skin hydration, elasticity, and reduced TEWL.
• Dose-dependent increases in Omega-3 Index for participants taking krill oil.
• Positive link between krill oil supplementation and skin health improvements.

Krill oil is a promising supplement for those looking to maintain youthful, hydrated skin. Its essential nutrients, including phospholipids and omega-3 fatty acids, work to protect and nourish the skin from within, enhancing skin barrier function and boosting overall skin health.

In healthy skin, there is a balance between the water content and the amount of water passing through the skin,” adds Lena Burri, Director R&D, Human Nutrition. “The skin acts as a protective barrier between the body's internal environment and the external world. Healthy skin is influenced by a complex interaction of many internal and external factors. Supplementing with krill oil will help give the skin the daily boost it needs.”