Evening primrose oil skin benefits

Evening primrose oil is a dietary supplement and a strong topical oil that is extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. It has many potential health benefits and can improve your skin health.

Evening primrose is a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This is an omega-3 fatty acid that is important for skin health. This is the reason why this oil is used in skin care. Some of the skin benefits of using evening primrose oil are mentioned below.

Benefits of using evening primrose oil topically

This oil as mentioned above is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which is excellent for moisturizing the skin. The oil can hydrate and soothe dry, itchy or flaky skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.

Due to the presence of GLA, this oil has potent anti-inflammatory properties. This can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the skin. As a result you can treat conditions like eczema and psoriasis using this oil.

Evening primrose oil is rich in anti-oxidants, which can help to protect the skin against free radicals. Because of this your skin will gain strength and there will be a reduction in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of skin aging.

Some studies have suggested that this oil can regulate the production of sebum, the oily substance that clogs pores and causes acne. Combined with its ability to reduce inflammation this oil can reduce breakouts.

Evening primrose oil can help to protect the skin against sun damage. The GLA present can help to reduce inflammation and redness caused by the sun.

Though there are many skin benefits of using evening primrose oil topically, more research has to be conducted on this topic. Also if you have any underlying health condition or you are taking some medicines, then consult your healthcare professional before using this oil. 

How to use evening primrose on skin?

You can’t use evening primrose directly on your skin. There are some tips that you must follow to get moisturizing and other benefits from this oil.  

Evening primrose oil is quite strong. Hence it has to be mixed with a carrier oil like jojoba oil, sweet almond oil or coconut oil to dilute it. For this you will have to mix a few drops of evening primrose oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil and apply it to your skin.

To get the benefits of evening primrose oil you will have to apply the diluted oil to clean and dry skin. Massage the oil on your skin. Pay attention to the areas that are dry or irritated.  

Evening primrose oil can help to treat acne. But for this you can use the oil as a spot treatment. Apply a small amount only to the areas which are affected with acne. You can repeat as needed.

You can apply the diluted oil at any time of the day, but it’s more beneficial during night time. At night when you are resting your skin is in repair mode and can absorb the oil more effectively.

Now if you are using evening primrose oil for the first time on your skin then it is a good idea to test whether your skin has some allergies. Apply a small amount of diluted oil to a small area of your skin and wait for 24 hours. If there is any reaction like redness, itching or other symptoms then don’t use it. It is not suitable for your skin.

In conclusion

Evening primrose oil has many skin benefits like moisturizing your skin and protecting it from skin inflammation. It can also help you to look younger and also treat acne. You will have to dilute with a carrier oil before using it on your skin.