Home Ingredients Hi-Omega-7® (Palmitoleic Acid Omega-7)
Hair, Skin & Nails

Hi-Omega-7® (Palmitoleic Acid Omega-7)

Evidence Level
Limited
1 Clinical Trial
3 Documented Benefits
2/5 Evidence Score

Hi-Omega-7® supplies omega-7 fatty acids, chiefly palmitoleic acid, a monounsaturated fat found in sea buckthorn and macadamia. Omega-7 is studied mainly for supporting skin barrier health, with a clinical trial showing improved skin barrier function, though evidence for metabolic and inflammatory benefits is mixed.

Studied Dose Around 500 mg of palmitoleic acid per day, the dose used in the single 12-week clinical trial.
Active Compound Omega-7 fatty acids, primarily palmitoleic acid (a monounsaturated fatty acid).

Benefits

Skin barrier support

In a 12-week randomized controlled trial in 90 women, oral palmitoleic acid (500 mg/day) significantly improved skin hydration and reduced water loss through the skin (TEWL); measures such as wrinkles and elasticity did not change significantly.

Supported by Trial 1

Skin hydration and comfort

By reinforcing the skin's lipid barrier, omega-7 supports moisture retention and a smooth, comfortable feel.

Supported by Trial 1

Honest evidence note

Evidence is mixed for other uses: one trial found omega-7 did not significantly reduce inflammatory blood markers, so benefits beyond skin should be viewed cautiously.

Supported by Trial 1

Mechanism of action

1

Skin lipid replenishment

Palmitoleic acid is a natural component of skin lipids; supplementing it helps reinforce the barrier that locks in moisture.

2

Membrane fatty-acid support

As a monounsaturated fatty acid, palmitoleic acid is incorporated into cell membranes and lipid signaling.

Clinical trials

1
Palmitoleic Acid and Skin Barrier — RCT
PubMed

12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of oral palmitoleic acid on skin barrier function. (Koh et al. 2023, Heliyon)

Adult women (n=90).

Oral palmitoleic acid (500 mg/day) significantly improved skin hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) versus placebo; elasticity, roughness, and wrinkle measures were not significantly different.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

Generally well-tolerated — adverse effects are uncommon at normal doses.
Mild digestive upset is occasionally reported.
Discontinue if any unusual reaction occurs.

Important Drug interactions

Anticoagulants — fatty acids may have a mild additive effect; monitor.
Generally compatible with a healthy diet.
Tell your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Frequently asked questions about Hi-Omega-7® (Palmitoleic Acid Omega-7)

What is Hi-Omega-7?

Hi-Omega-7® supplies omega-7 fatty acids, chiefly palmitoleic acid, a monounsaturated fat found in sea buckthorn and macadamia. Omega-7 is studied mainly for supporting skin barrier health, with a clinical trial showing improved skin barrier function, though evidence for metabolic and inflammatory benefits is mixed.

What is Hi-Omega-7 used for?

Hi-Omega-7 is researched primarily for Hair, Skin & Nails. In a 12-week randomized controlled trial in 90 women, oral palmitoleic acid (500 mg/day) significantly improved skin hydration and reduced water loss through the skin (TEWL); measures such as wrinkles and elasticity did not change significa…

What is the recommended dosage of Hi-Omega-7?

The clinically studied dose is Around 500 mg of palmitoleic acid per day, the dose used in the single 12-week clinical trial. Always follow the product label and check with a healthcare provider for personal advice.

Is Hi-Omega-7 safe, and does it have side effects?

For most healthy adults, Hi-Omega-7 is well tolerated at studied doses. Reported effects can include: Generally well-tolerated — adverse effects are uncommon at normal doses. Mild digestive upset is occasionally reported. It may also interact with some medications. Hi-Omega-7 is not right for everyone, so check with a healthcare provider first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medication.

Does Hi-Omega-7 interact with any medications?

Possible interactions include: Anticoagulants — fatty acids may have a mild additive effect; monitor. Generally compatible with a healthy diet. If you take prescription medication, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using it.

How strong is the scientific evidence for Hi-Omega-7?

NutraSmarts rates the evidence for Hi-Omega-7 as Limited (2 out of 5). It is backed by 1 clinical trial and 1 cited reference summarized on this page. A higher rating reflects more, larger, and better-designed human studies.

References(1 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Koh YG, Seok J, Park JW, et al. Efficacy and safety of oral palmitoleic acid supplementation for skin barrier improvement: A 12-week, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Heliyon. 2023;9(6):e16711..PubMedUsed to support: RCT supporting skin-barrier benefit of palmitoleic acid (omega-7).