Evening Primrose Oil

INCI: Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil Evening primrose oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of Oenothera biennis and is one of the richest plant sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid, at 8–10% GLA. That GLA content makes it a functional oil-phase ingredient rather than just a carrier.

In skincare formulations, EPO is used as an oil-phase active in products targeting dry, sensitive and compromised skin, and the appearance of mature skin. It absorbs readily without heaviness, making it suitable for serums, facial oils, and targeted treatment balms. It blends well with rosehip, sea buckthorn or borage oil for an omega-rich oil phase.

In food and nutraceutical applications, EPO is widely used in softgel and liquid supplement formulations, and increasingly in functional food formats — wellness shots, omega supplement oils and other blended nutrition products — as a source of GLA.

Formulator's tip: EPO oxidises faster than more saturated carrier oils, so include a mixed tocopherol antioxidant blend at 0.1–0.5% to protect shelf life in finished products. Store bulk oil cool, dark and sealed.