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Omega Beauty:
The benefits of omega fatty acids for skin & hair
Fatty acids are key structural components of cell membranes and of the lipid matrix that contributes to skin protection.
In cosmetic formulation, Omega-3, 6, and 9 help maintain the skin barrier function, support hydration and antioxidant protection, and improve scalp and hair condition. Cobiosa offers several botanical oils with exceptional omega profiles, including Inca Omega Oil and Chiaprotect.
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Related products
Chiaprotect Hair
Chiaprotect Skin
Inca Omega Oil
Trichomega
Omega Beauty: The relevance of omega fatty acids
Contents
- 1. Essential fatty acids in cosmetics
2. Inca Omega Oil / Trichomega and Chiaprotect
3. Proven efficacy: in vivo studies
1. Essential Fatty Acids in Cosmetics
Omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids are essential for maintaining the integrity of the skin and hair. The body cannot synthesize Omega-3 or Omega-6, so they must be supplied externally. Their topical application helps reinforce the skin barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Essential Fatty Acids: Omega 3 & 6
Polyunsaturated fatty acids are components of cell membranes and are naturally present in the skin’s protective lipid layer. Omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid) and Omega-6 (linoleic acid) act as ceramide precursors, help normalize keratinization, and provide anti-aging and antioxidant activity.
Why do omega fatty acids lead the skin barrier trend?
The skin barrier repair trend positions omega fatty acids as key components in cosmetic actives for 2026. Integrated into the lipid matrix of the stratum corneum, they help reinforce the cohesion, flexibility, and integrity of the skin barrier. As a result, oils rich in omega 3, 6, and 9 help protect the skin, improve comfort, and limit transepidermal water loss.
2. Inca Omega Oil / Trichomega and Chiaprotect
Inca Omega Oil and Chíaprotect are two omega-rich botanical oils from Cobiosa. Both are obtained by cold pressing to preserve their natural components without degradation, and both are COSMOS certified.
Inca Omega Oil / Trichomega: Sacha Inchi oil
Inca Omega Oil, or its hair care version Trichomega (INCI: Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Oil), is one of the oils with the highest omega fatty acid profiles. It contains 48% Omega-3, 37% Omega-6, and 8% Omega-9. This active ingredient acts as a ceramide precursor, helping to reinforce the barrier function of both the skin and scalp, while also strengthening the hair.
Chiaprotect: chia seed oil
Chiaprotect (INCI: Salvia Hispanica Seed Oil) is an extra virgin botanical oil containing 60% Omega-3 and 20% Omega-6, providing up to nine times more Omega-3 than Atlantic salmon. A true skin superfood, it delivers emollient, protective, and soothing benefits, helping to nourish and comfort the skin.
3. Proven Efficacy: In Vivo Tests
Both Inca Omega Oil / Trichomega and Chiaprotect are supported by in vivo and ex vivo tests demonstrating their efficacy in skin and hair care applications.
Skin results
Inca Omega Oil at 5% improves skin hydration by 150% versus the control after 2 hours, and by 125% after 4 hours. It also reduces TEWL by 9%, helping to improve the skin barrier function.
Chiaprotect at 4% increases skin elasticity by 15% in 28 days and shows an immediate soothing effect, with a 28% reduction in PGA score, supporting anti-redness benefits.
Hair results
Trichomega at 1% reduces hair breakage by 35% and split ends by 46% vs. placebo, demonstrating a repairing effect on damaged hair.
Chiaprotect restores almost 90% of the hair’s natural shine after only 2 applications. In addition, at 5%, it prevents UV-induced color loss by 26% vs. the control, highlighting its ability to protect hair against sun damage.
Definition
Omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids are essential ingredients in modern skin and hair care cosmetics. With Inca Omega Oil / Trichomega and Chiaprotect, Cobiosa offers two botanical oils with exceptional lipid profiles, supported by in vivo studies and international certifications. Download our complete monograph and discover how to integrate them into your formulations.