Intelligence · Ingredients

The ingredient narratives reshaping clean beauty.

Borage Leaf Extract

aka borago officinalis leaf extract · starflower leaf extract

Anti-inflammatory botanical extract present in premium body oils with soothing and barrier-support positioning. Should be distinguished from borage seed oil — different active profile.

Benefits
  • Anti-inflammatory via rosmarinic acid and polyphenols
  • Antioxidant activity
  • Skin conditioning and soothing
  • Mild astringent via tannin content
  • Distinct from GLA-rich borage seed oil
Example uses
  • Calming body oils
  • Sensitive-skin serums
  • Multi-botanical face creams
  • Anti-redness toners
  • Soothing body lotions
Formulation notes

Aqueous or hydroalcoholic extract; rosmarinic acid content varies by extraction. Tannin content may interact with metal ions — avoid iron-containing vessels.

Watchouts

Not to be confused with borage seed oil. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in whole plant — reputable suppliers minimise PA content but verification is inconsistent across supply chains.

Clean beauty perception

Generally accepted. Botanical soothing narrative straightforward. PA concerns not widely communicated.