Flaxseeds, the new generation superfood, are rich in essential nutrients that offer a bunch of skin and health benefits. When it comes to skin, everyone wishes to have radiant and smooth skin with no signs of premature ageing. Those are a few of the flaxseeds benefits for skin. These tiny power-packed seeds, known scientifically as Linum usitatissimum, are filled with goodness for a high-energy, detoxifying diet. Flaxseeds are available in two types - brown and golden. Both varieties contain the same nutritional content and moderate amounts of omega-3, which helps cure inflammation in the body. Another variety of flaxseeds, Linola (solin), possesses a completely different nutritional profile and is mostly not suggested for regular consumption.
This article covers the potential benefits of flaxseeds for skin and hair, their uses for skin problems and DIYs that suit every skin type.
Benefits of Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds, the superfood, are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, lignans, vitamin E and minerals, which are super beneficial when it comes to skin. It helps to remove dead skin cells, retaining the natural glow from within. Following are some detailed flaxseeds’ benefits for skin:
1. Reduced skin irritation and acne
Flaxseed has anti-inflammatory properties that may help with skin irritation and acne. These seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help the skin with inflammation and protect the heart from chronic diseases.
Additionally, flaxseed oil may be used topically on the skin to moisturise and soothe irritation caused by pollution and other environmental factors. Inflammation is the main cause of acne. Thus when consumed daily, flaxseeds show effective results in reducing skin breakouts.
However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm these flaxseeds benefits for skin and determine the best way to use flaxseed directly for skin conditions. Before working it on, consult with a dermatologist. Till then, enjoy it as a snack.
2. Flaxseed as a moisturiser
Flaxseed oil may be beneficial for moisturising the skin. It is a rich source of essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which can help to hydrate and nourish the skin. These fatty acids also improve the overall appearance of the skin. Moreover, these seeds contain antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Several pieces of research proved that topical application of flaxseed oil might be beneficial for treating eczema and white spots on the face caused by dryness.
Note: Flaxseed oil should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent it from going rancid, and it should be used within six months after opening.
3. Flaxseeds for skin rejuvenation
Flaxseed contains minerals like magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and zinc that are proven to have potential benefits for skin rejuvenation and maintaining skin health. These tiny seeds also contain lignans and antioxidants that may protect the skin barrier from permanent damage.
The soluble and insoluble fibres of flaxseeds promote regular bowel movements and lower cholesterol levels. Healthy gut health is linked to healthy skin in a person. Lastly, the vitamin E found in these seeds helps in improving skin elasticity and slowing down the ageing process.
Other Flaxseeds Benefits for Skin
1. Brightens the complexion
Suffering from dull and tanned skin like anybody else who just has to get out in the sun no matter what? Flaxseeds are the saviour. The lignans and antioxidants in these seeds may help reduce the appearance of dark spots, age spots, uneven skin tone caused by pigmentation and tan. Thus, helping the skin to brighten up without any expensive treatments.
2. Reduces blemishes
Flaxseeds are rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and omega-3 fatty acids that fight free radical damage to maintain the integrity of cell membranes and promote healthy skin health.
3. Hydrates the body
Consuming flaxseed oil or taking it as a supplement may reduce dehydration in the body by providing it with essential fatty acids. If one wishes to consume flaxseeds in their natural form, they can try mixing a spoonful of the superfood in a glass of water of hydrating fruit juice. That is 2x hydration right there.
How to Use Flaxseeds in Your Skincare
There is a variety of ways to use flaxseeds for your skin. Check them out!
1. Face Mask
Flaxseeds can be used as a face mask to hydrate and nourish the skin. This mask also helps to reduce redness on the skin and brighten up the complexion. To make the face mask, mix grounded flax seeds with other hydrating ingredients that are not rough on the skin, such as aloe vera gel and yogurt. Another way is to mix it directly with water until the paste becomes thick (a natural moisturiser!)
2. Body Scrub
Flaxseeds can be used to scrub off the impurities and tan from the body. With their nutritional profile, the seeds reduce body acne, rashes, sunburn and ingrown hair. To make the scrub, mix the ground flaxseeds with sugar, coconut oil, sea salt, and a purifying body wash. Scrub it for a few minutes and see the glow.
3. Moisturiser
The above sections clearly show that flaxseed is a clean moisturiser for all skin types. It can be prepared easily by boiling a handful of flax seeds in water, until the paste becomes thick. The gel-like paste can be stored in a container to be used as a moisturiser for the skin or a natural conditioner for hair.
Flaxseed oil benefits for skin when mixed with a store-bought moisturizer or lotion. The direct application of the oil can be too heavy for sensitive skin and cause breakouts.
DIY Face Mask for Firm Skin
Flaxseeds can be used as a face mask to help firm the skin. Its compounds may help to protect the skin from damage that contributes to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading to sagging skin. Follow this simple recipe to make the face mask.
Step 1: Mix two tablespoons of ground flaxseeds with three tablespoons of water.
Step 2: Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes until it becomes thick.
Step 3: Add a tablespoon of plain yogurt or aloe vera gel to the mixture.
Step 4: Apply the mixture to your face and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse with water.
DIY Face Mask for Skin Rejuvenation
Flaxseeds’ benefits for skin rejuvenation through their ingredients and compounds. Try this simple recipe to attain the benefits.
Step 1: Mix grounded flax seeds with water and allow the mixture to sit for 3 to 5 minutes or until it becomes gel-like.
Step 2: Mix in a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice, and stir.
Step 3: Apply it on the face and rinse after 15 to 20 minutes. Use the face mask twice a week.
DIY Face Mask for Acne
With their anti-inflammatory properties, flaxseeds are proven beneficial for reducing acne on the skin. Follow the below recipe to make the mask.
Step 1: Mix flaxseeds with water to make a thick paste.
Step 2: Add a teaspoon of honey and a tablespoon of yogurt to the mixture.
Step 3: Apply the mixture to the face and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 4: Rinse with water and store the excess face mask in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Most importantly, flaxseed oil is safe for topical use. Because the oil contains such high levels of essential fatty acids, it should not be taken by mouth. The few, very limited clinical studies we found on the effect of flaxseed oil on skin showed promising results. While more controlled trials are needed to validate these findings, flaxseed oil may be one of the natural home remedies you can use to get radiant skin.
FAQs
Are flaxseeds good for the skin?
Research has proved that flaxseeds are highly beneficial for skin conditions like acne, dryness and premature ageing.
Do flaxseeds make your skin glow?
Yes. The essential fatty acids of flaxseeds keep the skin hydrated, radiant and plump.
How do you eat flaxseed for glowing skin?
One can consume a handful of raw or roasted flaxseeds every day to impart their flaxseeds’ benefits for skin. It can also be used as a face mask or moisturiser with the help of the recipes given above.
Can flaxseeds remove dark spots?
Yes. The omega-3 and antioxidants of flaxseeds are proven helpful in removing dark spots on the skin.
Do flaxseeds help with hair growth?
The soluble and insoluble fibres in flaxseeds help with hair growth by increasing blood circulation.