Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract
Source of γ-linolenic acid orally; topical evidence is limited.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Plant extract. Clinically meaningful effect on human skin is not supported by robust evidence; data limited to in vitro / lab models.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Unknown
About this ingredient
Evening Primrose Flower Extract (Oenothera Biennis Flower Extract) is an aqueous or hydroglycolic extract of evening primrose flowers. Composition differs from evening primrose oil (which is from seeds): less gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), more flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) and phenolic acids. Mechanism. Antioxidant action via free radical neutralization. Mild anti-inflammatory effect. Where applied. Serums and creams for sensitive and mature skin, anti-inflammation products. Concentration 0.5–3%. Less common than evening primrose oil. Evidence base. Virtually no human clinical RCTs of the flower extract – most evidence covers seed oil (GLA). CIR confirmed safety. Pregnancy and lactation – no data. No published studies of topical flower extract in pregnancy. Manufacturers recommend avoidance.
Frequently asked questions
Is Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract safe during pregnancy?
Safety data for Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract during pregnancy is insufficient. Best avoided when in doubt.
What is Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Source of γ-linolenic acid orally; topical evidence is limited.
What's the INCI name for Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract?
The INCI name is Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract.
See Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract in a product composition right on the store page
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