What role does FADS1 play in Haut?

FADS1 encodes delta-5 desaturase, a key enzyme in polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism. It converts dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) into arachidonic acid (AA), a precursor of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids. Through this pathway, FADS1 can influence skin health: higher AA levels are linked to increased inflammation and acne, while DGLA tends to be anti-inflammatory. Some studies report associations between FADS1 variants (e.g., rs174547) and atopic dermatitis or eczema, but effect sizes are small and highly dependent on dietary fat intake. Consumer DNA tests often promote personalized omega-6/omega-3 recommendations for skin, but the evidence is mostly mechanistic and insufficient for clinical guidance. Without blood tests or medical advice, high-dose oil supplementation is not recommended. Skin health is determined by genetics, microbiome, diet, and environment – FADS1 is only one small piece.