Scientific name: Oenothera biennis oil
Classification: Vegetable oil
Soothing, elasticity-enhancing, restorative.
Stories from Nature
Oenothera biennis, also known as evening primrose, is a plant with large, fragrant yellow flowers arranged in a spike-like cluster. It seems that its name derives from the combination of the Greek words “oinos,” meaning “wine,” and “thèra,” meaning “desire,” which could translate to “desire to drink wine.” It thrives in humid environments such as riverbanks, beaches, and the banks of rivers. A distinctive feature of these flowers is that they bloom in the evening, hence the common name “evening beauty.”
This plant is rich in unsaturated fatty acids found in its seeds, which help protect cell membranes and slow tissue aging. Cultivated by Native Americans, its root was used as a soothing agent to treat swelling on the body.
It then spread to Europe in the 17th century, where it was widely used as a medicinal plant, to the point of earning the reputation as the “King’s Panacea.”
Hair Benefits
Evening Primrose Oil is a valuable source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly gamma-linolenic acid (Omega-6). Historically known as a “panacea” for its healing properties, it is a powerful antioxidant that protects cell membranes, slowing down tissue aging. It is highly effective on damaged hair, especially dry and highly porous hair. Specifically formulated for highly porous and damaged hair, it penetrates the damaged hair fiber, improving its structural integrity and hydration.
Skin Benefits
In sun products treatments and after-sun products, it acts as an excellent soothing and anti-redness agent. It is essential for soothing redness and sunburn, restoring the skin barrier damaged by UV rays and maintaining the elasticity needed to prevent wrinkles and dehydration.
Thanks to its antioxidant properties, it is also an excellent anti-wrinkle agent with powerful emollient and moisturizing effects. This is why it is found as an active ingredient in numerous sun products and skincare products. It is also useful in treating dry skin because the omega-6 fatty acids it contains help retain moisture in the skin and soothe rough areas.
