The Benefits of Borage Seed Oil for the Skin

Brittan Bates

Global Brand Storytelling

3 min read

Skincare Education

Get healthy, supple skin with the help of essential fatty acids.

borage seed oil

If you're looking for a natural solution to achieve smooth and radiant skin, borage seed oil may just be the answer. This powerhouse ingredient has been touted as a game-changer in the skincare world for its numerous benefits. From fighting inflammation to reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, borage seed oil is a natural wonder that deserves a place in your skincare routine. Discover whether this oil is right for your skin type and how to add it to your daily routine.

What is borage seed oil?

Type of ingredient: Omega-rich emollient oil


Who should use it: This oil is best for normal to dry skin.


How often you should use it: Add to your morning and evening skincare routine.


Borage seed oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds of the borage plant, also known as the starflower. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. This oil is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat various skin conditions.


Borage seed oil is also a rich source of other nutrients, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy skin, reducing inflammation, and preventing premature aging. It is a light, non-greasy oil that is easily absorbed by the skin, making it an excellent addition to any skincare routine.


Borage seed oil benefits and uses

Known for its amazing skin benefits, this oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is an essential fatty acid that helps to maintain the skin's barrier function and improve hydration. This, in turn, can help to soothe dry and irritated skin and prevent signs of aging.

Here are some of the top benefits of borage seed oil for skin:


  1. Moisturizing: Borage seed oil is a natural emollient, which means that it can help to soften and hydrate the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe and calm dry or irritated skin.
  2. Anti-aging: The GLA in borage seed oil has been shown to have anti-aging benefits, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while keeping skin firm and elastic.
  3. Acne-fighting: Borage seed oil also can be effective in fighting acne, as it has antibacterial properties that can help to prevent the growth of pore-clogging bacteria. It can also help to regulate oil production, which is important for preventing breakouts.
  4. Calming: This oil boasts anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to have a calming effect on the skin—making it great for those with sensitive or reactive skin. It can help to reduce redness and irritation, and soothe the skin after exposure to environmental stressors.
  5. Lightweight: Lightweight and highly absorbable, it won't leave your skin feeling greasy or oily, making it perfect for all skin types—including those with oily or breakout-prone skin—while delivering its many benefits without clogging pores.

All in all, borage seed oil is a fantastic ingredient to include in your skincare routine if you're looking for effective and gentle skincare. It can be used on its own in a facial oil or as an element of your moisturizer or serum for an added boost of nourishment and hydration.


How to incorporate it into your skincare routine

Want to get the benefits of this nourishing seed oil without adding an extra step to your skincare routine? Reach for Soy pH-Balanced Hydrating Face Wash. Our best-selling cleanser forms part of even the most basic skincare routine and is packed with skin-loving ingredients—including borage seed oil—to deliver hydrating benefits every day, twice a day. Teamed with soothing aloe vera, cooling cucumber extract, and complexion-enhancing soy proteins, this gentle-yet-effective formula will deliver all the benefits of borage seed oil while deeply cleansing your skin and removing all traces of makeup and grime.


Keep it simple, keep it fresh

Discover more of the best skincare ingredients when you buy from fresh. Safe, effective, and sensorial, our range of skincare and bodycare products is inspired by nature and backed by science to keep your skin happy, healthy, and fresh all year long.

Author Profile
blog author Brittan Bates

Brittan Bates

Global Brand Storytelling

Written by Brittan Bates for Fresh. Brittan is an NYC-based writer, editor, and storyteller with 9 years of experience spanning digital and print journalism, copywriting, brand strategy, and more. Her work has appeared in publications such as Teen Vogue and brands including Diane von Furstenberg, abc carpet & home, FRĒDA SALVADOR, and more.