Borago Officinalis (Borage)
What is Borago Officinalis (Borage)?
Borago officinalis, commonly known as borage, is an annual herb from the Boraginaceae family, originating in the Mediterranean region. In skincare, it appears as flower or leaf extracts or, more commonly, seed oil, which contains high levels of gamma-linolenic acid, an essential omega-6 fatty acid. This ingredient belongs to the emollient and skin-conditioning category in cosmetics. It works by forming a lightweight barrier on the skin's surface, helping to lock in moisture and mimic the structure of natural skin lipids. Typically incorporated into moisturizers, serums, and facial oils at low concentrations, it imparts softness and smoothness, supporting overall skin feel without heaviness.
Benefits
Supports skin hydration through lipid replenishment
Promotes a smoother skin texture as an emollient
Compatible with non-comedogenic product formulations
Who It's For
A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).
| Who May Benefit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| People with dry or rough skin | Individuals with known allergies to Boraginaceae plants |
| Individuals preferring botanical conditioning agents | People sensitive to essential fatty acid-rich oils |
| Those seeking low-hazard natural ingredients | Those advised to limit unsaturated pyrrolizidine alkaloid exposure |
Safety Notes
- Considered low concern for topical use in cosmetics
- Patch testing recommended for new users
Frequently Asked Questions about Borago Officinalis (Borage)
What is Borago officinalis used for in cosmetics?
Primarily as a skin-conditioning emollient to soften and hydrate.
Is borage safe for sensitive skin?
Generally well-tolerated topically with low irritation potential.
Does borage cause breakouts?
No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0.