Eicosapentaenoic Acid
EPA and DHA are the commonly used abbreviations for eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. These are two essential polyunsaturated fatty acids that belong to the class of valuable omega-3 fatty acids. Essential means that our body absolutely needs eicosapentaenoic acid and DHA for a variety of important biological functions, but cannot produce the substances itself. The organism is therefore dependent on us taking in EPA and DHA in sufficient quantities with food or dietary supplements. Eicosapentaenoic acid is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is believed to have various health benefits.
Influence of eicosapentaenoic acid on health
EPA and DHA support human health in several different biological systems. For example, DHA improves the structure of our cell membrane, contributing to normal growth and healthy development. Eicosapentaenoic acid promotes the regulation of inflammatory processes, among other things. Eicosapentaenoic acid is also important for brain health, as it is a major component of cell membranes in the brain and is believed to play a role in cognitive function and mood regulation.
However, recent scientific studies have shown that another polyunsaturated fatty acid from the omega-3 group is important in this context. And not only that: the anti-inflammatory properties of DPA (docosapentaenoic acid) are even significantly stronger than those of DHA. Eicosapentaenoic acid and DPA are found in several fatty fish species (especially herring, mackerel, tuna, salmon, and sardines), fish oil, cod liver oil, meat, and algae. In principle, EPA and DPA have numerous positive effects on our health. They lower the triglyceride level in the blood, thus ensuring better blood fat values, but also improve the flow properties of the blood, which reduces the risk of clotting and contributes to optimal blood circulation. By stabilizing the heart muscle cells, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid reduce the risk of dangerous arrhythmias and heart attacks. Blood vessels are widened and become more elastic thanks to EPA and DPA: this also reduces blood pressure in the long term.
Eicosapentaenoic acid is commonly used as a dietary supplement in the form of fish oil capsules or as a component of functional foods and beverages. It is also used in medicine as a prescription drug for certain conditions, such as hypertriglyceridemia, a condition characterized by high triglyceride levels in the blood.
At present, the effect of EPA, DHA and DPA on the human psyche is not yet fully understood. However, there are already clear indications that eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid can be used to combat depression and hyperactivity. A glaring deficiency of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid is even frequently associated with schizophrenia. Also of interest: sufficient amounts of certain omega-3 fatty acids help strengthen our immune system. This means that the functions of immune cells are increased by fatty acids such as DHA, EPA and DPA.
Deficiency of eicosapentaenoic acid, DHA and DPA
A deficiency of eicosapentaenoic acid can lead to an imbalance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as both types of fatty acids compete for the same enzymes in the body. This imbalance can lead to increased inflammation and potentially contribute to the development of various health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders and mood disorders. However, signs that could indicate a possible eicosapentaenoic acid deficiency include increased inflammation, dry skin, mood swings, joint problems, and cognitive issues.
Dry, itchy, or even scaly skin is a sign of EPA and DPA deficiency in many cases. Dandruff on the scalp, very dry hair, severe callus formation and dry to cracked heels can also often be traced back to an insufficient supply of the vital omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, there is a greatly increased risk of developing inflammatory diseases and allergies.
The use of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosapentaenoic acid in cosmetic products is therefore all the more sensible. DHA, EPA and DPA can be optimally integrated in facial creams, but also in care creams for hands, feet, and nails. With appropriate formulations, it is possible to ensure that hair, skin, and nails remain elastic and supple and possible inflammation is reduced or even completely prevented.
Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosapentaenoic acid in cosmetics
However, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosapentaenoic acid also offer many benefits in skin care. As an anti-inflammatory agent, eicosapentaenoic acid is said to have skin-soothing properties and help reduce inflammation and redness of the skin. In addition, EPA and DPA have anti-inflammatory properties. This is very beneficial for psoriasis, blemished skin and/or acne, among other conditions. It is also believed to support skin barrier function by helping to maintain the integrity of the skin barrier, which can help prevent moisture loss and maintain skin hydration.
In cosmetics and personal care products, eicosapentaenoic acid can be used in various forms, such as oil, extract, or as a component of other skin care ingredients. It can be found in products such as moisturizers, serums, creams, and lotions, as well as in products for sensitive or irritated skin.
Mature skin benefits from eicosapentaenoic acid: cell regeneration is promoted and the formation of new skin cells is boosted. It is even claimed that with EPA and DPA many skin problems such as excessively dry skin and pimples can be sustainably remedied.
But eicosapentaenoic acid and DPA can do even more in cosmetics: they delay skin aging through their cell-protecting effect, while at the same time contributing to supple skin, strengthening hair roots, and ensuring healthy fingernails. Overall, eicosapentaenoic acid and DPA ensure visibly improved elasticity in skin and hair.
This active ingredients could become your starting point for building a cosmetic brand.
Fact Sheet Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
INCI: Eicosapentaenoic acid
CAS number: 10417-94-4
Definition: starting material for the formation of docosahexaenoic acid
Brief description: colorless liquid
Occurrence: mainly in fatty sea fish such as Atlantic herring and salmon
Melting point: minus 54 degrees Celsius
Fact Sheet Docosapentaenoic Acid (DPA)
INCI: Docosapentaenoic acid
CAS number: 24880-45-3
Physical state: liquid
Definition: polyunsaturated, long-chain fatty acid from the group of omega-3 fatty acids
Occurrence: as glycerol ester in fish, fish oil, cod liver oil, meat and in algae
Melting point: from minus 78 degrees Celsius
Fact Sheet Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)
INCI: Docosahexaenoic acid
CAS number: 6217-54-5
Brief description: yellowish liquid
Definition: polyunsaturated fatty acid, belongs to the class of omega-3 fatty acids
Occurrence: like EPA, mainly in fatty sea fish
Melting point: minus 44 degrees Celsius
Cosmetics with DHA, EPA and DPA
Omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and docosapentaenoic acid are of great importance for supple skin, healthy nails, and shiny hair. Yet hardly anyone eats fatty sea fish on a daily basis. A deficiency, however, can have fatal consequences: for human health, but also for the external appearance. Skin impurities, premature skin aging as well as inflammatory changes, allergies and eczema are threatening. Cosmacon is therefore happy to integrate the valuable substances DHA, EPA and DPA into your formulations on request. Especially for face and body creams, hair care products, nail care as well as hand and foot creams, the use of these substances is ideal. Ask us, we develop individual solutions for your needs.
Sources:
Cosmetic and Therapeutic Applications of Fish Oil’s Fatty Acids on the Skin.; Mar Drugs. 2018 Jul 30;16(8):256.
Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Intake and Blood Pressure: A Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.; J Am Heart Assoc. 2022 Jun 7;11(11):e025071.
Association of Red Blood Cell Omega-3 Fatty Acids With MRI Markers and Cognitive Function in Midlife: The Framingham Heart Study.; Neurology. 2022 Oct 5;99(23):e2572-82.
Anti-inflammatory and nutritional improvement effects of dietary supplementation combined with fish oil in patients with epithelial cancer.; Oncol Lett. 2022 Jul 12;24(3):306.
Eicosapentaenoic acid- and docosahexaenoic acid-rich fish oil in sow and piglet diets modifies blood oxylipins and immune indicators in both, sows and suckling piglets.; Animal. 2022 Oct;16(10):100634.