Nature always comes to our aid, even and especially in the case of dry, irritated and sensitive skin, which tends to redden easily causing itching and discomfort. Today we are talking about a precious ally for this type of skin, borage oil, obtained by cold pressing of the seeds of the Borago officinalis plant. But let's understand better, deepening the properties of this very special vegetable oil and its applications on our skin.
Borage oil, cosmetic properties
Borage oil is anti-inflammatory and proves capable of repairing the damaged skin barrier. This oil, in fact, contains high levels of omega 6 fatty acids, especially gamma linolenic acid, of which it is one of the main sources (Tasset Cuevas et al, PLoS One, 2013). Gamma linolenic acid is essential to ensure skin tone and structure, improve elasticity and hydration (Foster et al, Nutrition, 2010 - Muggli et al, Int J Cosmet Sci, 2005). Not only that, borage oil proves useful in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, itching but also in case of acne and rosacea (Lin et al, Int J Mol Sci, 2018 - Kim et al, Ann Dermatol, 2020). Rosacea, or couperose, is an inflammatory condition affecting the skin that causes erythema, redness, itching, telangiectasias, which are harmless swelling of small blood vessels, and boils, affects adults and can worsen in case of cold climate.
Borage oil, how to use it on the skin
Here is how to obtain a powerful ointment, with an anti-inflammatory, soothing and moisturizing action, very simple to make and beneficial for sensitive, irritated, prone to acne or rosacea skin. Melt in a double boiler 150 grams of shea butter, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredient capable of repairing the skin barrier and giving the skin nourishment and elasticity (Lin et al, Int J Mol Sci, 2018). Remove from the double boiler and let it cool down a bit. Add 4 tablespoons of borage oil and 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil, capable of repairing the damaged skin barrier, helping in case of acne and dermatitis and useful to regulate sebum production (Lin et al, Int J Mol Sci, 2018). Pour into a glass jar and store in a cool, dry place. Apply a little product in the evening, on damp skin, for example after a shower or after having sprinkled with thermal water or a hydrolat, such as lavender water which is highly soothing. You can also use it on the scalp in case of seborrheic dermatitis and itching. Moisten the skin with simple water or aloe gel, then apply the ointment with a small massage. Leave on for ten minutes then rinse with your shampoo.
