Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil is the INCI name for sunflower seed oil, a plant-derived oil pressed from sunflower seeds.
Benefits in skincare
- Moisturising and emollient – softens and smooths the skin.
- Rich in linoleic acid – particularly useful for supporting the skin's natural barrier.
- Contains vitamin E (tocopherols) – provides antioxidant benefits.
- Lightweight feel – generally absorbs readily without being as heavy as some richer oils.
- Helps reduce moisture loss – useful in creams, balms and facial oils.
- Suitable for sensitive skin formulations – generally considered a gentle cosmetic oil.
Why We use it
Sunflower oil is versatile and relatively economical, making it useful in:
Cleansing balms • facial oils • moisturisers • body oils • creams • soaps • haircare • lip balms
There are different grades and compositions of sunflower oil. High-linoleic sunflower oil is particularly interesting for facial skincare because linoleic acid is associated with healthy skin-barrier function, while high-oleic sunflower oil is more oxidation-stable and therefore attractive for formulations where shelf stability is important.
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Sunflower seed oil Attributes |
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Skin feel |
Light, silky |
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Key fatty acid |
Linoleic or oleic, depending on grade |
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Vitamin E |
Good source |
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Oxidative stability |
Moderate–high depending on grade |
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Cost |
Generally economical |
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Best suited to |
Everyday skincare & barrier support |
We use high-linoleic sunflower oil in the latest addition to our skincare range Silk Ceramide Cleansing Melt – Marigold Charms.
Happy Beauty
Marion X