Patient Research
Sign in
All studies
RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

A Study to Evaluate the Effect of Fish Oil Concentrate on Skin Function

This research study aims to understand if a specific fish oil concentrate, named EPAX Omega 3-9-11, can make your skin healthier. Scientists believe it might help reduce skin redness and dryness because of special ingredients it contains, similar to other fish oils known for calming inflammation. To find this out, they will measure changes in people's skin on their face and inner arm. Participants will take either a dummy pill (placebo) or one of two different doses of the fish oil for three months. By comparing these groups, the study hopes to discover if this particular fish oil is beneficial for skin, how much is needed, and how it helps the skin's natural functions. It's designed for healthy adults aged 35 to 65 who often experience red or dry skin.

At a glance

Status
Recruiting
Phase
NA
Sponsor
Epax Norway AS
Enrolment target
90
Start
30 Apr 2025
Estimated completion
01 Dec 2025
Skin Health

What is this study about?

This study is all about understanding if a specific type of fish oil can improve skin health. We know that some fish oils contain special fats, like Omega-3, which are often linked to reducing inflammation in the body. Inflammation can sometimes lead to skin problems like redness or dryness. This particular fish oil concentrate, called EPAX Omega 3-9-11, has fats that researchers think might specifically help skin function.

Researchers previously found that similar fats from certain North Atlantic fish could help calm down inflammation and reduce redness, possibly by building up in body fat and skin layers. Other Omega-3s are also known for helping skin recover from sun exposure and generally lowering inflammation throughout the body. So, this study is testing if this new combination oil can also work to make skin healthier by reducing inflammation, redness, and improving how well the skin protects itself.

To do this, volunteers will be split into three groups: one group will receive capsules with a dummy pill (placebo), another will get a low dose of the Omega 3-9-11, and the third will get a higher dose. Over three months, researchers will take measurements of the skin on participants' faces and inner forearms at the start, after six weeks, and at the end of the study. This will help them see if the fish oil makes a difference, and if so, how much of it is needed to see those benefits. The goal is to provide clear, scientific information about the effects of this fish oil on skin, especially for people who experience redness or dryness.

Key takeaways

  • Tests fish oil for skin health.
  • Aimed at adults 35-65 with red/dry skin.
  • Compares fish oil doses to a placebo.
  • Involves taking pills for 3 months.
  • Includes skin measurements at 3 visits.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be a healthy man or woman between 35 and 65 years old. You should also feel that you have 'atopic skin' – meaning your skin tends to be red, itchy, or dry quite often. You'll need to be able to understand the study information and give your permission to take part.

There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. If you've had allergic reactions to fish products before, or if you have an active skin condition like severe eczema or psoriasis, this study isn't suitable. Also, if you're taking certain medications like strong anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, or certain hormone treatments, you might not be able to participate. If you've had a lot of sun exposure recently, or you take other fish oil supplements regularly, you also wouldn't be able to join.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

  1. Are you between 35 and 65 years old?
  2. Do you often experience redness or dryness in your skin?
  3. Are you not pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to be pregnant?
  4. Do you have no known allergies to fish products?
  5. Are you not currently taking fish oil or certain other medications?
Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be given capsules to take every day for three months. These will either be a dummy pill (placebo), a low dose of the fish oil, or a higher dose – you won't know which one you're getting. During these three months, you'll have three visits to the study clinic. The first visit will be at the very start (called 'baseline'), then another visit after six weeks, and a final visit at 12 weeks.

At each visit, the research team will take special measurements of your skin on your face and inner forearm. These measurements are designed to check things like skin dryness, redness, and how well your skin protects itself. The appointments will involve these non-invasive skin assessments. The total duration of your active participation, including taking the capsules and attending visits, will be approximately three months.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer you the potential benefit of improved skin health, especially if your skin is prone to redness or dryness, although there's no guarantee the fish oil will work for you, particularly if you're in the placebo group. The study aims to be very safe; however, as with any supplement, there's always a small chance of side effects, especially if you have an unknown allergy. You will be closely monitored by the study team, and you always have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.
  • Cutest Systems Ltd
    Verified postcode
    Cardiff, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'atopic skin'?

Atopic skin generally refers to skin that is prone to conditions like eczema, often feeling dry, itchy, or red. If you think your skin often behaves this way, you might have atopic skin.

What is a 'placebo'?

A placebo is a 'dummy' pill that looks just like the real medication but contains no active ingredients. It helps researchers compare how effective the actual treatment is.

Will I know if I'm getting the fish oil or the placebo?

No, this is a 'blinded' study, meaning neither you nor the researchers will know who is receiving the fish oil and who is receiving the placebo until the study is over. This helps ensure the results are fair.

What kind of skin measurements will be taken?

The measurements will involve non-invasive tests on your skin, likely using devices that check things like skin moisture, redness, and elasticity. These are usually painless and quick.

Can I continue taking my usual daily supplements?

You will not be able to take fish oil supplements or other lipid-based supplements during the study. It's important to discuss all your current supplements and medications with the study team.

How to find out more

Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.

Interested in taking part?

Register your interest

Share your details and the research team for "A Study to Evaluate the Effect of Fish Oil Concentrate on Sk…" will contact you if you may be eligible. Always speak to your GP before agreeing to take part.

Discussion

Community discussion

Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.