Skip to content

OENOTHERA BIENNIS SEED

CAS 90028-66-3
77

Safety score · 0–100

Fine

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

Evening primrose seed oil — one of the few botanical sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that calms inflammation and supports skin barrier repair.

Oenothera biennis seed oil is notable for its high gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content (8-10%), unusual among botanical oils. Most plant oils contain linoleic acid (LA) but very few convert it to GLA. GLA is a potent anti-inflammatory omega-6 that works through the prostaglandin E1 pathway and has been studied extensively for atopic dermatitis, eczema, and dry skin conditions. The oil also contains oleic acid and palmitic acid. Evening primrose oil is well-tolerated topically; the main concern is potential for comedogenicity from the oleic acid fraction, which varies by formulation.

Skin benefits

  • GLA provides anti-inflammatory action — beneficial for eczema and sensitive skin
  • Supports skin barrier repair
  • Moisturizing and emollient
  • May help reduce trans-epidermal water loss

Known concerns

  • Oleic acid content may increase comedogenicity in some formulations
  • May cause breakouts in acne-prone skin types
  • Rare allergic reactions reported
  • Mild risk of contact dermatitis

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Check your shelf

Find OENOTHERA BIENNIS SEED in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains OENOTHERA BIENNIS SEED and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.