Borago Officinalis Seed Extract

Borago officinalis (borage) seed extract is typically used at low concentrations as an emollient/soothing, omega-6 (GLA)-rich botanical to support barrier function, and it is generally well-tolerated in leave-on products. However, as a plant-derived extract it carries a non-zero risk of irritant reactions or allergy in highly reactive or eczema-prone individuals (botanical constituents can trigger contact dermatitis even when marketed as “calming”). Given its usually low-potency profile but real sensitization potential in susceptible patients, a gentle-but-not-inert score is appropriate. Safety Notes: In mass-market leave-on creams/lotions and facial serums, Borago Officinalis Seed Extract is often used at very low levels (around 0.001–0.1%) as a label/antioxidant-botanical claim within broader botanical blends. Mid-range “soothing/barrier” products more commonly fall around ~0.1–1%. Higher-strength consumer products (typically facial oils, oil-serums, and some anhydrous balm concentrates) can reach about 2–5% when the extract is supplied in an oil/glycol carrier and positioned as a hero botanical; rinse-off products are usually at the low end due to cost and short contact time.