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Ingredient · INCI reference

Oenothera Biennis Seed Extract

Oenothera Biennis Seed Extract is an extract of evening primrose seeds used as a skin-conditioning botanical ingredient in cosmetics.

What it is

Oenothera Biennis Seed Extract is derived from the seeds of the evening primrose, a plant whose seeds are well known as a source of fatty-acid-rich lipids. The extract is included to condition the skin and provide emollient and antioxidant character within a formula. In sunscreens it typically appears as a supporting botanical, especially in Japanese and Korean products.

Safety & warnings

Evening primrose seed extract is generally well tolerated. As with any botanical extract, sensitivity is possible in predisposed individuals, but it is not a commonly cited allergen and is used at low levels.

Origin & sourcing

Natural; extracted from the seeds of Oenothera biennis (evening primrose).

Questions everyone asks

What is evening primrose seed extract used for?

It conditions the skin and provides emollient and antioxidant character as a supporting botanical ingredient.

Is it the same as evening primrose oil?

They come from the same seeds, but the extract and the pressed oil are prepared differently and may differ in composition and concentration.

Sources & references

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