Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil

Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil

By Richard Bence
on
0 comments

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is a fascinating natural ingredient that has captured significant scientific interest for its skin benefits. What makes it special is its rich composition of essential fatty acids - particularly linoleic acid (about 72%) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, about 13%) [1]. These fatty acids are crucial building blocks for healthy skin, playing vital roles in maintaining your skin's natural barrier and helping it retain moisture.

For those with dry or sensitive skin (Types 1 and 2), EPO can be particularly beneficial. Its ability to support barrier function helps prevent moisture loss and may reduce sensitivity to environmental irritants [2]. If you have balanced skin (Type 3), EPO can help maintain that healthy equilibrium while providing anti-aging benefits. For those with oily or oily-sensitive skin (Types 4 and 5), EPO should be used more cautiously - while its anti-inflammatory properties can help manage sensitivity, you'll want to use it sparingly to avoid excessive oiliness.

Recent research has revealed exciting anti-aging properties of EPO. A 2022 study showed that it can help rejuvenate aging skin cells, potentially helping to maintain a more youthful appearance [3]. This is particularly interesting for anyone concerned about skin aging, regardless of their skin type. The study found that EPO could partially restore the proliferation of senescent (aged) skin cells, suggesting it might help maintain skin's natural renewal processes.

While EPO shows promise for various skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis [4], it's important to note that research results have been mixed. For instance, while earlier studies suggested benefits for atopic dermatitis, more recent controlled studies haven't shown significant improvement [2]. However, its moisturizing and barrier-supporting properties may still provide relief from symptoms, particularly for those with dry, sensitive skin conditions.

References

  1. Eskin N, 'Borage and evening primrose oil', European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology, 2008; 110: 651-654. DOI: 10.1002/ejlt.200700259

  2. Lodén M, 'The clinical benefit of moisturizers', Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2005; 19: 672-688. DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2005.01326.x

  3. Ceccacci S et al, 'Promitotic Action of Oenothera biennis on Senescent Human Dermal Fibroblasts', International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2022; 23: 15153. DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315153

  4. Moldovan M et al, 'Cosmetic Products Containing Natural Based Emollients for Restoring Impaired Skin Barrier: Formulation and In Vivo Evaluation', Farmacia, 2021; 69: 129-134. DOI: 10.31925/farmacia.2021.1.17

Related posts