Fatty acids in marine algae could 'treat skin problems'

Conclusion This laboratory study investigated the effects of six long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) found in high levels in marine organisms when used against the bacteria that cause acne (P. acnes) and various other skin infections (S. aureus). As the researchers say, there is a need for alternative topical treatments for these skin conditions, as the treatments used currently tend to be either not very effective, or cause undesirable side effects such as skin irritation or dryness. LC-PUFAs have previously been demonstrated to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. This research demonstrated that LC-PUFAs were most effective at preventing the growth of P. acnes, but were less effective against S. aureus. However, the LC-PUFAs were able to kill S. aureus bacteria but not P. acnes. LC-PUFAs had a similar effect to the commonly used topical treatment benzoyl peroxide against the acne-causing bacteria. Importantly, the LC-PUFAs did not inhibit the activity of the standard treatments when used in combination, and some even seemed to have a beneficial effect and worked well together. This was exploratory research – so far, the preparations have only been tested on bacterial cultures in the laboratory, not on real people. Further research is needed to see whether a LC-PUFA preparation could be developed for the topical treatment of acne or skin infections in people. It would then need further trials to test that it is effective and, most importan...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Medical practice Medication Source Type: news