Evening Primrose Oil

moisturising acne control

overview

Evening primrose oil is a natural product extracted from the seeds of the plant Oenothera biennis L. or Oenothera lamarckiana L. It is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that is important for skin health. GLA helps to maintain the skin's natural barrier function and reduce inflammation. Evening primrose oil is also known for its soothing, emollient, and healing properties.

benefits

1. **Moisturizes the skin:** Evening primrose oil is a natural moisturizer that helps to keep the skin hydrated and soft. It is especially beneficial for people with dry or sensitive skin. 2. **Reduces inflammation:** GLA has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. 3. **Improves skin elasticity:** GLA helps to maintain the skin's natural elasticity and firmness. It can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 4. **Fights acne:** Evening primrose oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to fight acne. It can help to reduce the number of blemishes and improve the overall appearance of the skin. 5. **Soothes sunburn:** Evening primrose oil can help to soothe and relieve the pain of sunburn. It can also help to reduce redness and inflammation. 6. **Promotes skin cell regeneration:** Evening primrose oil helps to promote skin cell regeneration, which can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Skin suitability

All skin types, especially beneficial for dry or sensitive skin

concerns

Side effects with evening primrose oil medicines include effects on the stomach and gut such as indigestion, nausea and softening of stools, increased temperature, hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions such as exanthema (skin rash), and headache. The frequency is not known.

precautions

Evening primrose oil should be used with caution if you have certain medical conditions. Always talk to your provider before starting any supplement, even one available over-the-counter (OTC). Evening primrose oil may increase the risk of bleeding. If you have a bleeding disorder, be very careful if you use evening primrose oil. If you will be having surgery, your provider may want you to stop taking evening primrose oil. Any medicine or herb that affects how your blood clots or increases the risk of bleeding should be stopped for at least two weeks before surgery. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if you need to stop taking any of your medications or supplements before surgery. Although there is an ongoing study about evening primrose oil for the induction of labor in pregnancy, there is not yet enough evidence to make a recommendation. Always talk to your provider about taking any kind of supplement while you’re pregnant. It’s not clear if evening primrose oil is safe while you’re breastfeeding. Talk to your provider about any supplements you're considering if you plan to breastfeed.

source

Evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of the plant Oenothera biennis L. or Oenothera lamarckiana L.

CIR

Safe as used in cosmetic products

EWG

NA

additional info

Evening primrose oil is a natural product and its effects can vary from person to person. It is important to talk to your doctor before using evening primrose oil, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Evening primrose oil is also known as EPO. It is a rich source of linoleic acid (66-76%), gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 7-12%), and oleic acid (6-15%). GLA is a superstar fatty acid that has soothing and healing properties. Evening primrose oil can help with atopic dermatitis, dry eyes, brittle nails, sunburn, and acne. It is a great hydrating plant oil that can also reduce inflammation and irritation. Evening primrose oil can help to initiate structural changes within the skin, improving its overall appearance. It is a superb healing agent that can truly help dry skin. Evening primrose oil helps to promote skin cell regeneration. It is a real goodie especially for dry, easily irritated skin.