The evening primrose plant is native to North America, and the oil extracted from its seeds has long been used by Native Americans as a topical treatment for wounds and skin inflammation. It’s no wonder then that many premium skincare products use evening primrose oil (EPO) as an ingredient! Rich in omega-6 fatty acids, linoleic acid, and gamma-linoleic acid, evening primrose oil’s benefits for the skin are, in a word, extraordinary.
What Is Evening Primrose Oil?
Evening primrose oil contains up to 25% fatty acids and is a thick plant-based oil that is safe for most people to use daily. It also works well with other plant-based oils and skincare products because it is not known to interact negatively with other ingredients. Its rich concentration of fatty acids makes it a soothing oil, making it excellent at locking in moisture. The gamma-linoleic acid (GLA) in evening primrose also contains powerful antioxidative properties, which helps protect the skin from free radicals and oxidative stress that causes aging.
Evening Primrose Oil Benefits for Skin
Evening primrose oil benefits for the skin include:
- Hydration
EPO is excellent for dry skin. It helps reduce water loss in the skin, keeping your face hydrated all day long. By maintaining hydration, you also maintain elasticity and firmness in the skin which helps your skin to appear younger.
2. Protection
Evening primrose oil is rich in antioxidants, which work to combat the environmental toxins (free radicals) exposed to our skin every day. By neutralizing free radicals, EPO helps to prevent early signs of aging due to the oxidization of the skin cells.
- Combats Inflammation
The GLA in evening primrose oil helps reduce skin inflammation, which can help treat acne. It can also be used for other inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
- Restoration
The high concentrations of linoleic acid may help with dark spots from acne scarring or aging.
Evening Primrose Skincare Products
A variety of skincare products contain evening primrose oil. Evening primrose oil benefits for skin can be reaped during the day or while you’re sleeping. To diminish fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes while you sleep, consider Eminence’s Lavender Night Cream. For itchy dry skin on your hands, knees, or elbows, consider Wildflower Ultralight Oil, which protects your skin from environmental stressors, while calming inflammation.
Evening Primrose Oil for Overall Wellness
One of the most fascinating things about evening primrose is that studies show that it may be effective in treating a host of conditions, in addition to treating common skin conditions.
For example, some studies have linked EPO supplements with reduced blood pressure. Other studies have suggested that it can reduce nerve pain caused by diabetes. Its antioxidant properties make it helpful for some people in reducing pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. A 2014 study even showed it to be a natural treatment for reducing blood cholesterol, which can improve heart health.
Moreover, women experiencing hot flashes have used EPO to minimize the frequency and severity of the hot flashes, and it may also help some women to experience relief from PMS.
Premium Skincare Products and Treatments in Newport Beach
At Swiss Clinique in Newport Beach, we carry a wide range of plant-based premium skincare products that are formulated to bring out the absolute best in your skin. To learn more about evening primrose oil benefits for skin, contact us today. For your most beautiful skin yet, combine premium products with premium facials and infusions at our holistic Corona del Mar skincare clinic. Call 949-500-1210 to schedule an appointment. You are also welcome to send us a message online.