Borage Seed Oil (refined)
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Borage seed oil, extracted from the many thousands of tiny black seeds of the Borago officinalis plant, is renowned for its unique characteristics and properties that contribute to both internal health and skincare.
One of the standout features of borage seed oil is its exceptionally high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that sets it apart from many other plant-based oils. GLA plays a crucial role in supporting skin health by helping regulate inflammation and promoting the maintenance of a healthy skin barrier. This makes borage seed oil a valuable addition to skincare formulations aimed at soothing irritated skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.
The oil's composition extends beyond GLA, encompassing additional beneficial fatty acids such as linoleic acid and oleic acid. These fatty acids contribute to the overall nourishing and moisturising properties of borage seed oil. With its light and non-greasy texture, the oil absorbs easily into the skin, making it suitable for various skin types. Borage seed oil is known for promoting skin elasticity, preventing moisture loss, and providing a radiant complexion.
Borage Seed Oil can help prevent trans-epidermal water loss and assists in retaining water on the skin. Topical use creates an occlusive barrier in the skin, which can still be visible 2-3 days after application. Given its high percentages of Oleic (70%) and Linoleic (20%) acids, almond oil can penetrates the skin at a moderate rate, and can be beneficial as a skin lubricant and emoillient.
In general, nuts, seeds, and legumes are excellent sources of phytosterols, both for the body and for skin. Phytosterols can help replenish and restore ageing skin, keeping it pliant and supple.
Borage oil is a valuable addition for both soap-makers and cosmetic chemists and can be useful in many formulations, including creams, facial oils, massage oils, soap, salves, balms and lotions.
Borage Seed oil is insoluble in water and alchohol, but soluble in other oils. It should be added to the formula as is, in the fat phase of the formulation, and can be used at 1-100%, as it can be used neat in massage oils.
Botanical Name: Borago officinalis
Common Name: Borage Seed Oil
Extraction Method: Cold-pressed extraction is a common method to retain the oil's nutritional profile, but some oils may undergo expeller pressing or solvent extraction.
Colour: Typically ranges from a pale yellow to golden yellow.
Odour: Characteristic, with a mild, nutty aroma.
Fatty Acid Composition: Borage seed oil is particularly rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), typically ranging from 20-27%, along with other fatty acids like linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid.
Consistency: Medium to heavy consistency.
Absorption: Absorbs well into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
Shelf Life: Borage seed oil has a relatively short shelf life compared to some other carrier oils, typically around 6-12 months. It is sensitive to light, heat, and air.
Storage: Store in a cool, dark place, preferably in a tinted glass bottle to protect it from light.
Refractive Index: Typically ranges between 1.470 and 1.480.