What is a possible physical sign of essential fatty-acid deficiency?

A dull or dry appearance of hair serves as a recognizable physical sign of essential fatty acid deficiency. Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, play a critical role in maintaining healthy skin and hair by contributing to the structural integrity of cell membranes and providing moisture. When the body lacks these essential nutrients, it can manifest as dry, brittle, and dull hair, indicative of insufficient fatty acids that are necessary for moisture retention and overall hair health.

The other options do not typically represent physical signs that are directly associated with essential fatty acid deficiency. Fine blood vessels around the eyes, for example, might indicate other conditions related to vascular health or aging rather than a deficiency in fatty acids. A loss of color or a wasted appearance may point to various nutritional deficiencies or underlying health issues, but not specifically to essential fatty acid deficiency. Loss of subcutaneous fat can relate to numerous factors, including overall caloric intake and metabolism, yet does not uniquely signify a lack of essential fatty acids. Therefore, the presence of dull or dry hair effectively represents one of the more common and noticeable signs of this nutritional deficiency.