Borage oil Organic
Description
Organic Borage Oil (Borago officinalis) has an exceptionally high content of Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), a fatty acid with a specific role in repairing cell membranes and the skin barrier, which is deficient in atopic, chronically dry skin or skin with a weakened barrier. It is the oil of choice for severely dry, atopic skin, with eczema or prone to chronic dehydration.
GLA - this bioactive compound acts directly on the structure of the epidermis, restoring the integrity of the hydrolipid barrier and reducing transepidermal water loss. Through its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to modulate the skin's response, the oil contributes significantly to soothing erythema, reducing pruritus, and relieving symptoms associated with chronic skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.
The specific scent, often considered unpleasant, is caused by volatile compounds native to the seed that create a pungent, oily smell, similar to fried fat or fish. This is the characteristic of unrefined oil.
Characteristics
- eco Cultivation: Organic, certified
- water_do Appearance: Yellowish liquid, pungent specific scent, slower absorption, semi-greasy feel
- verified_user Quality: Cosmetic grade, cold-pressed, unrefined
Ingredients: Borago Officinalis Seed Oil*
*100% of the total ingredients come from organic farming. COSMOS ORGANIC certified by Ecocert Greenlife.
Main Properties
- checkCell regenerator, skin barrier restorer: the high concentration of GLA supports the recovery of the weakened hydrolipid barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- checkSoothing for atopic and chronically dry skin: GLA contributes to reducing the inflamed, irritated, and itchy appearance associated with eczema or atopic dermatitis.
- checkRestructuring with a firming effect: supports skin elasticity and tone, suitable for sagging, withered skin or skin with stretch marks.
- checkAntioxidant: protects cell membranes against oxidative processes and contributes to maintaining the skin's youthful appearance.
- checkStrengthening for nails: applied to dry or brittle nails and cuticles, it contributes to flexibility and reduces a fragile appearance.
Usage & Synergies
Face care
In cosmetic applications, it is optimal in products intended for facial rejuvenation, and the care of mature, dry, or structurally compromised skin. Due to its ability to stimulate cell regeneration and improve skin elasticity, it is frequently included in anti-aging serums, repairing night creams, and emulsions for the eye contour.
Borage oil is an active-type ingredient for the face, it is generally not used pure on the face, but in a general dosage of 5-15%. It is intended primarily for dry, atopic skin, with a prematurely aged appearance or a weakened barrier.
Practical recommendations
- Anti-aging serum: Incorporate at 5-15% into an oily serum, alongside lighter oils. The GLA in borage is more effective in moderate, consistent doses than in occasional large doses.
- Cream for dry or atopic skin: Add at 5-10% into the oil phase of nourishing and soothing creams. Suitable for the evening routine or cold seasons.
- Nail care: Apply a drop onto each cuticle in the evening. It helps make brittle nails more flexible and nourished.
Synergies in face care
For anti-aging serums and creams, it combines optimally with Evening Primrose Oil (another oil rich in GLA), Argan Oil, Centella Oil. On mature skin in need of tone, the association with Marula Oil, Daisy Oil, and Barbary Fig Oil completes the care spectrum. As an ingredient in formulas for atopic skin, combining it with Bisabolol and Ceramides supports the recovery of the skin barrier.
Body care
At the body level, borage is valuable in formulas intended for severely dry, stretch-marked skin, or skin that is sagging and lacking tone. Its effect of restructuring the skin barrier and supporting skin elasticity recommends it for preventive and curative products.
Practical recommendations
- Anti-stretch mark oil or cream: Incorporate at 10-15% alongside other regenerating oils and actives. The effect is more visible with long-term, regular use.
- Creams for dry skin: Add at 5-10% into the oil phase of nourishing and restructuring body creams, especially for areas with thicker skin or chronic dryness.
Synergies in body care
For an anti-stretch mark formula, it combines well with Rosa Mosqueta Oil and Wheat Germ Oil. As a regenerating ingredient in body oils, the association with Caprilis, Olive-Silicone, and FCF Grapefruit Essential Oil provides both a firming effect and an agreeable aromatic profile.
Hair care
It is a good choice in conditioning treatments intended for a dry scalp or damaged hair, where it contributes to sealing the cuticle and restoring natural shine. Borage oil can be included in small concentrations in treatments for a dry scalp or one with dry dandruff, and in masks for brittle ends. It is not a primary ingredient in hair care, but it brings value as a supporting active with beneficial properties.
Practical recommendations
- Mask for dry scalp: Incorporate at 5-10% into a soothing hair mask. The effect of GLA can contribute to reducing flaking and discomfort of the dry scalp.
- Serum for brittle ends: Add at 5-10% into a serum for ends alongside vegetable silicones and lighter oils. It helps make dry ends that are prone to breakage more flexible.
Synergies in hair care
As an active ingredient in a hair mask for a dry or atopic scalp, the synergy with Calendula Oil or Aloe Vera Oil and Chamomile, Myrrh, or Lavender Essential Oil provides a soothing, balanced formula.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is it not recommended pure on the face?
The high concentration of GLA and other polyunsaturated fatty acids makes it a powerful ingredient that is harder to tolerate pure on the face or large areas of skin. In moderate doses (5–15%), the oil works effectively; the principle "less is more" is especially true for borage.
How long does it take to see effects on atopic skin?
The effects are cumulative and require longer-term, regular use, generally a few weeks of consistent application.
Can it be combined with Evening Primrose Oil?
Yes, it is one of the classic synergies in repairing formulas and for atopic skin. Both oils are rich in GLA, but they have complementary profiles of other fatty acids and phytosterols.
Bibliography and resources
- Kanehara, S. et al. Clinical effects of undershirts coated with borage oil on children with atopic dermatitis. The Journal of Dermatology.
- Takwale, A., et al. (2003). Efficacy and tolerability of borage oil in adults and children with atopic eczema. BMJ.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR). Safety Assessment of Borago Officinalis-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics.
- CosIng Database. Regulatory status of Borago Officinalis Seed Oil. European Commission.
Safety in use
Cosmetic product for external use only. Do not ingest. Avoid contact with eyes.
Storage, preservation
Keep the bottle in a cool place, preferably in the refrigerator after opening, away from direct light.
Details
Related Recipes and Articles
You'll like these too
Reviews
Write a valid review and earn loyalty points worth €0.40

