Omega-7 fatty acids are amazing allies for our bodies! Yet they aren’t very well known. Why? Perhaps simply because they’re rare! Nature has reserved them for just four fruits, and sea buckthorn is by far the richest of them all: its concentration is 20 times higher than that of the others!
Thanks to their unique properties, they play a key role not only in metabolic health but also in the beauty of our skin. Palmitoleic acid, which is abundant in omega-7 fatty acids, is in fact the natural substance most similar to human sebum!
For all those looking to understand how these fatty acids can transform their skincare routine, here's an insight into the benefits of Omega 7.
“Omega 7”—did you say “Omega 7”?
Omega-7s are monounsaturated fatty acids that include palmitoleic acid, trans-vaccenic acid, and paullinic acid. Those are some pretty technical terms, aren’t they? The key takeaway is that their chemical structure allows them to interact beneficially with our bodies. They are particularly notable for their specific effects on heart health, skin, and metabolism.
In practical terms, Omega-7 fatty acids help maintain the fluidity of cell membranes. They play an important role in cell-to-cell communication and nutrient absorption. These acids also promote interaction between fat and muscle tissue. That’s their way of limiting the formation of new fat! Omega-7s thus contribute to better weight management and a reduced risk of metabolic diseases.
Unlike their cousins, Omega 3 and 6, which are essential fatty acids, our bodies can synthesize Omega 7.
All the health benefits of Omega 7
Skin and mucous membranes
Omega-7 fatty acids are known for their direct effect on mucosal hydration. They help prevent dryness in sensitive areas, particularly the mucous membranes of the eyes, mouth, and vagina.
Beyond these sensitive areas, one part of our body is particularly fond of Omega-7: our skin! Omega-7 helps keep the skin hydrated, leaving it feeling comfortable and soft.
These acids also promote tissue regeneration, particularly in the healing process. They are known to help treat acne, eczema, rosacea, and burns. Their anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe sensitive and irritated skin.
Seamless support for metabolism and weight management
Several studies suggest that omega-7 fatty acids also help regulate cholesterol levels and reduce insulin resistance. In doing so, they help prevent type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
Finally, they help lower triglyceride and bad cholesterol (LDL) levels, while promoting the good cholesterol (HDL) essential for good heart health.
But wait…
Did you think you were done learning about the incredible benefits of Omega-7? Well, not only do they combine all of the aforementioned benefits under a single name, but they also have the unique ability to deactivate the proteins responsible for inflammatory reactions! This effect, combined with cholesterol-lowering properties, is believed to offer protection against cardiovascular disease.
Omega 7: Essential fatty acids for radiant skin
Omega-7 fatty acids have a protective and regenerative effect on our skin. Their composition is very similar to that of human sebum, which allows them to be easily absorbed and incorporated into this protective barrier. This mixture of water and lipids is essential to the health of our skin:
- They protect against external aggression
- They limit water evaporation
- They keep skin soft and supple.
But the benefits of Omega-7 go far beyond simple protection. Over time, our skin shows signs of aging: it loses elasticity and firmness. Dryness and wrinkles then begin to appear. Omega-7 helps slow down this natural skin aging process!
The latest studies show that they also have an effect on the visible signs of aging. This discovery could soon propel Omega-7s into the ranks of the most sought-after ingredients in the cosmetics industry! By all accounts, this would be a well-deserved recognition for this often-overlooked fatty acid!
In fact, they promote the production of collagen, the key protein responsible for skin firmness and elasticity. By stimulating the synthesis of this essential macromolecule, they help restore the skin’s suppleness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Omega-7s are much more than just fatty acids. They are true allies in preserving the beauty and youthfulness of our skin. Incorporating these precious nutrients into our skincare routine can help improve skin health, prevent premature signs of aging, and restore the comfort of perfectly hydrated skin. In fact, users of natural sea buckthorn-based products in their skincare routine are unanimous in their praise!
Sea buckthorn oil, the queen of Omega-7s
Sea buckthorn: a rich source of omega-7
Only four fruits in the world contain Omega-7 fatty acids, but sea buckthorn—scientifically known as Hippophae rhamnoides—by far has the highest concentration. Sea buckthorn—and especially sea buckthorn oil—is a veritable goldmine of Omega-7s. The pulp of this particularly hardy fruit is rich in palmitoleic acid, which is highly beneficial for the skin. Cold-pressed according to a precise protocol, sea buckthorn oil, rich in Omega-7s, retains all of their benefits.
At Maison de l’Argousier, we take the utmost care of our small orange berries and the natural products derived from them. We passionately cultivate our 26 hectares of sea buckthorn fields, specifically the Clara variety. Our plantation has been certified organic since 2018. The berries are frozen within two hours of harvest to preserve all their active ingredients and offer our customers a product of the highest quality. Transport in a refrigerated truck to our laboratory prevents any rise in temperature, ensuring the berries remain unaltered. The natural juice and oil from the berries are extracted using a COSMOS-certified (solvent-free) process.
And you know what? We have to tell you that beyond its Omega-7 content, sea buckthorn oil is a true all-rounder: In addition to palmitoleic acid, sea buckthorn is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as Omega-3 (DHA), 6, and 9, flavonoids, and polyphenols—all of which proudly round out its impressive profile!
Wanted: Are there other sources of Omega-7?
Other natural sources contain omega-7. However, their omega-7 concentrations are nowhere near those found in sea buckthorn—which are at least 20 times higher. That said, we can highlight these three lesser-known sources of omega-7.
Among them, the macadamia nut stands out. This tropical nut is not only delicious (foodies, take note!) but also contains palmitoleic acid. In addition to this fatty acid, macadamia nuts offer several other nutrients that are beneficial for women’s skin. Among them are vitamins A and E, known for their antioxidant properties and also found in large quantities in sea buckthorn berries.
Similarly, avocado oil is another natural source of omega-7. Known for its many health benefits, this oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and also contains essential vitamins, including vitamins A, D, and E.
Finally, olive oil—a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet—is also a source of omega-7. While its concentration of these fatty acids is not as high as in sea buckthorn or macadamia nuts, it is nonetheless valuable for its high content of omega-9 and vitamin E.
The little-known but essential Omega 7s!
Omega-7s deserve to be better known and incorporated into women’s health and beauty routines. Whether through diet, dietary supplements (such as softgels, capsules, or oil in bottles like La Rayonnante from Maison de l’Argousier), or the high-quality cosmetics available on this site, they will provide our bodies with that little extra boost that makes all the difference.
I hope this article has helped you better understand their role and benefits. Take care of yourself and your skin with these valuable fatty acids and all the natural products you’ll find in our store!
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