Omega-3 and skin ageing

This study will investigate whether an omega-3 fatty acid supplement can improve skin changes after menopause.

It is being carried out at Salford Royal Hospital (part of the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust) by a team of researchers from The University of Manchester. It is funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).

• White Caucasian women
• Aged 55-65 years old
• Post-menopausal (not taking HRT)
• Non-smoker
• No history of inflammatory skin disease (eg psoriasis or severe eczema)
• Not currently taking any blood thinners or anti-coagulants (eg warfarin)

• Dermatopharmacology Unit, Salford Royal Hospital

Taking part will involve:

• Taking a fish oil supplement in a gelatine* capsule for 12 weeks
• Completing two online questionnaires about lifestyle and skin health
• Two clinic visits which will include several non-invasive skin measurement tests will be carried out and a blood sample taken

Two optional skin measurements will be offered:

• Two skin biopsies, approx. 6mm in diameter taken from the buttocks
• Tape-stripping to measure how quickly the skin barrier can recover

*Supplement capsule contains fish oil and gelatine and is therefore not suitable for vegans/vegetarians.

Participants completing the study will receive a payment of £120. Additional payments will be made for those who undertake the optional measurements.

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