Without a doubt, people know about the benefits of beauty-enhancing miracle oils including tea tree, coconut, rosehip, and argan. But there are various other amazing oils that are worth knowing about — nature is brimming with other vital ingredients deserving of a spot in your routine. One of those that are creating huge waves in 2021 is borage seed oil.
This golden elixir has a good amount of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and enhances one extremely spectacular super-power. GLA is a kind of omega-6 fatty acid that helps to improve your skin’s necessary protective barrier. Borage seed oil has two times more GLA as compared to primrose oil, which is an oil typically related to potent levels. So, it is clear that borage seed oil skin benefits are quite remarkable.
Borage oil is used as a remedy for rosacea, eczema, pimples, psoriasis, dermatitis, and many other types of skin inflammation. Many consider borage seed oil as their favorite moisturizing ingredients, along with oils such as sunflower, soybean, and sweet almond oil. You can also use it safely alongside linseed, olive, and almond oil, amplifying the effects of all of them.
In essence, the borage seed oil is a quick soothing solution for those whose skin is always craving some TLC or are prone to overdoing the actives.
Ahead, the borage seed oil skin benefits and our best skincare brand picks for you to try right away.
What is Borage Seed Oil?
Borage seed oil is also known as borage oil or starflower oil. Borage oil is an extract of the seeds of plants called Borago officinalis, a wildflower. The plant is native to the Mediterranean but is also found in many other countries of the world, including the UK. The flower is called starflower due to its lovely deep blue star-shaped flowers with unique fuzzy red stems.
The flowers are adored by bees and are a beautiful addition to your garden. Borage flower is an annual herb that is commonly used for medical purposes such as treating depression (that is why it is also called the herb of gladness).
As far as borage seed oil is concerned, it is obtained by pressing the flower’s seeds, and that is why it got its name. Borage oil is readily available across all pharmacies and drugstores in the form of bottled oil or capsules. The oil has a golden yellow shade and is popularly used for cooking. Nowadays, you can also find the humble borago officinalis seed oil in skin care.
Borage Seed Oil Skin Benefits
Borage seed oil is known to be effective in treating various forms of skin inflammation. If you’re suffering from dry skin, you’ll definitely adore its calming and nourishing abilities (make sure to avoid witch hazel as well). Let’s take a closer look at these borage seed oil skin benefits.
Eczema Treatment
The studies conducted on borage seed oil effects on eczema showed mixed results.
One research proved that using GLA-containing essential oils such as borage oil topically is very beneficial for people suffering from atopic dermatitis. It proved that borage seed oil has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Another research conducted in 2013 on the effect of borage seed oil consumed through the mouth proved that the oil has no significant benefits for those who suffer from eczema than placebos.
Therefore, we can say that according to clinical researches, topical borage oil for skin conditions and diseases is more promising and effective as compared to oral versions.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
A 2014 study compared the intake of fish oil, borage seed oil, and a mixture of both for 74 patients. These patients were under observation for eighteen months. It was concluded that taking 1.8 grams of borage seed oil or/and 2.1 grams of fish oil on a daily basis can help you lower RA or rheumatoid arthritis signs and symptoms.
The study proved that some people could use these essential oils as substitutes for NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs). In this way, they can avoid a few of the side effects due to the constant intake of NSAIDs. The study also suggested that people can lower the disease-modifying antirheumatic drug intake.
Rich in Gamma-Linolenic Acid
We’ve already mentioned that borage oil is rich in GLA or linolenic acid. GLA is a kind of omega 6-fatty acid that your body converts to PGE1 (Prostaglandin E1). It is also present in numerous different vegetable oils as well as in nuts and seeds.
The substance functions like a hormone in the body. It’s essential for maintaining brain function, bone health, reproductive health, and metabolism. It also helps in reducing inflammation tied to multiple cardiovascular problems and skin diseases.
Borago officinalis seed oil in skin care has gained enormous popularity due to the fact that it has the highest GLA content compared to any other essential oil. Several studies already back this statement with strong evidence; still, scientists believe more research needs to be done on it.
Many Other Uses
Some of the other uses of borage seed oil include treatment of serious health conditions and diseases such as:
- Adrenal Gland Issues
- Menopause
- Arthritis
- Premenstrual Signs
- Cardiovascular Conditions
- Gingivitis
Best Borage Seed Oil Products
Following are some of the best borage seed oil products that are worth a try:
1. The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Borage Seed Oil
This is a fine product to start with if you haven’t used a borage oil ever before. This facial oil is made up only of pure borage seed oil and has the majestic ability to calm and nourish dry or irritated skin types. The Ordinary‘s borage oil can help you fight against signs of aging, dehydration, and inflammation to nourish and moisturize your skin.
2. Herbivore Emerald Hemp Seed Deep Moisture Glow Oil
Herbivore Emerald glow oil comprises a good amount of borage seed oil. The oil is suitable for any kind of skin but works the best on blemish-prone or dry skins. It mainly targets redness, dryness, and dullness. The healing wonders of this oil are absolutely spectacular, showing you instant results after applying by hydrating your skin.
3. Anastasia Beverly Hills Hydrating Oil
Many skincare experts recommend Anastasia Beverly Hills oil. The oil comes with an ideal mixture of borage seed oil, black currant, jojoba, lovage leaf, and meadowfoam seed oil to fulfill their respective purpose. The oil’s hydration abilities are pretty impressive and can be used with a quality foundation before applying to prevent a cakey look.
4. Fresh Soy Cleanser
Fresh Soy Cleanser has been around for quite some time now, and the reason for its popularity is that it really works. This OG has so many positive reviews by thousands of customers, showing the trust it has built with them. It includes a roster of ingredients such as nutrition-rich borage seed oil, amino-rich soy protein, and soothing water. Along with the borage seed oil skin benefits, the cleanser is made to soothe potential concerns such as loss of firmness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Give it a try to see its main ingredient’s (borage seed oil) true power.
5. FAB Ultra Repair® Oat & Hemp Seed Dry Oil
This bad boy is made for normal, oily, and a combo of both types of skins. The oil’s main targets though are redness and dryness. Borage oil alongside other crucial ingredients work together to hydrate and de-stress your skin. First Aid Beauty has also included a natural extract called Arnica Montana Flower extract that efficiently supports the skin’s natural healing process.
Over to You
Clearly, it’s essential to be familiar about the ingredients we use in our skincare routine. While some may have a bad rep like DMDM hydantoin or sodium lauryl sulfate, some others might actually be good for you — you just don’t know them.
Now that you know the many borage seed oil skin benefits, it’s up to you to incorporate the wonderful borago officinalis seed oil in skin care. Find a skincare brand that works for you and who knows, it might be your new favorite oil too!