Starflower Oil
Starflower oil, also known as borage oil, is a nutrient-rich plant oil prized in British skincare for its exceptionally high levels of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). It helps nourish and soothe skin, making it a popular choice in creams, serums and facial oils for those seeking natural hydration and barrier support.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, starflower oil functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. Its high GLA content integrates into the skin’s lipid barrier, helping to reduce moisture loss while smoothing texture and improving softness. It is frequently blended into moisturisers, night oils and balms where it lends a silky, non-greasy feel and works well alongside other botanical lipids.
Key benefits
- Helps maintain skin hydration
- Softens and smooths rough or dry patches
- Supports the skin’s natural barrier function
- Imparts a silky, non-greasy finish
- Calms the appearance of irritated skin
- Suitable for use in anti-ageing formulations
Best for
dry skin, mature skin, sensitive skin, dehydrated skin
Where it comes from
Starflower oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of the starflower plant (Borago officinalis), a hardy annual herb with bright blue, star-shaped flowers native to the Mediterranean and widely cultivated in the UK.