Sunflower Seed Oil

Best

Emollient

Sunflower Seed Oil at a glance

  • A non-volatile, non-fragrant plant oil derived from sunflower seeds
  • Used as an emollient in cosmetics
  • Due to its high linoleic acid content, it can help replenish, strengthen and soothe skin
  • Great at reducing signs of skin stress or irritation

Sunflower Seed Oil description

Sunflower seed oil is a non-volatile, non-fragrant plant oil used as an emollient in cosmetics. Sunflower seed oil’s 60% (on average) linoleic acid content has the ability to help replenish, strengthen, and soothe skin. This oil also contains other beneficial fatty acids skin can use, including oleic, palmitic, stearic, and a small amount of omega-3 linolenic acid. [br] [br] Sunflower oil is particularly beneficial for dry, dehydrated, or environmentally compromised skin because its linoleic acid content helps skin synthesise its own lipids (fats), including ceramides, visibly repairing its barrier and leading to smoother, healthier-looking skin. [br] [br] Sunflower seed oil also has a natural calming effect on skin, so can be helpful for reducing signs of skin stress or irritation. In fact, research on infants with atopic dermatitis has shown that topical sunflower oil is a viable ingredient to alternate with topical steroids normally prescribed to control symptoms of this skin disorder.

Sunflower Seed Oil references

  • Pediatric Dermatology, August 2018, ePublication; and January-February 2013, pages 42-50
  • Chemicke Zvesti, May 2018, pages 2,607-2,615
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, December 2017, ePublication
  • Dermatology, October 2014, pages 230-239

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.