Sunflower Oil
Sunflower Oil is a versatile vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of Helianthus annuus, native to North America but now cultivated globally. It is commonly obtained through cold pressing or refining and is valued for its light texture, neutral scent, and high content of essential fatty acids—particularly linoleic and oleic acids—as well as natural tocopherols (vitamin E). With excellent antioxidant, emollient, and anti-inflammatory properties, Sunflower Oil is widely used in food products, skincare formulations, hair care, massage therapies, and pharmaceutical preparations. Its ability to nourish and protect the skin barrier makes it a key ingredient across both wellness and industrial markets.
Uses
Primary Uses
Aromatherapy & Wellness
- Used as a carrier oil for essential oil dilution in massage, roller blends, and diffuser oils
- Included in moisturizing body oils and massage blends for dry or irritated skin
- Applied in facial serums and wellness formulations to soothe inflammation
- Used in natural remedies for eczema, psoriasis, and skin sensitivity
- Blended into baby oils and sensitive-skin formulations for its gentle profile
Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Incorporated in creams, lotions, and emulsions for deep hydration and nourishment
- Used in lip balms, cuticle oils, and hand creams for softening and conditioning benefits
- Blended into scalp oils and conditioners to improve hair texture and scalp health
- Added to cleansing balms and makeup removers for mild yet effective cleansing
- Used in sunscreen and after-sun care products for its replenishing and antioxidant qualities
- Applied in beard oils and men’s grooming products for its non-comedogenic properties
- Included in bath oils and body butters for whole-body moisturization
Topical Applications
- Used as a base in ointments, salves, and herbal infusions for wound care and healing
- Applied in stretch mark oils and scar-support blends for skin regeneration
- Incorporated in calming balms for irritated or compromised skin barriers
- Added to post-procedure recovery creams for hydration and comfort
Secondary Uses
Food and Beverage Chemicals
- Used in cooking, baking, and frying due to its high smoke point and neutral taste
- Added to salad dressings, marinades, and dips for healthy fat content
- Used as a nutritional lipid source in fortified foods and beverages
- Incorporated in dietary supplements for essential fatty acid and vitamin E delivery
- Employed as a food-safe carrier oil in spice extracts and natural flavor emulsions
Cosmetic and Personal Care Chemicals
- Used as an emollient and antioxidant in skincare products
- Functions as a lightweight oil base in oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions
- Employed in natural baby care lines and fragrance-free sensitive skin products
Pharmaceutical Chemicals
- Used as an excipient or carrier oil in capsules, emulsions, and ointments
- Incorporated in topical pharmaceutical formulations for skin protection and soothing
- Utilized in oral delivery systems for lipid-soluble active ingredients
Environmental and Green Chemicals
- Explored in biodegradable lubricants and green solvent systems
- Used in eco-friendly cleaner formulations as a plant-based oil component
Basic Identification Attributes
- Botanical Name: Helianthus annuus
- Common/Trade Name: Sunflower Oil
- INCI Name: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
- CAS Number: 8001-21-6
- HS Code: 1512.11 / 1512.19
- Synonyms: Sunflower Seed Oil, Helianthus Oil
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid vegetable oil
- Color & Odor: Pale yellow to golden; neutral aroma
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol and oils
- Refractive Index: 1.469 – 1.475
- Specific Gravity: 0.913 – 0.921
- Main Components: Linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, tocopherols
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Low; safe for cosmetic and food use
- Exposure Limits: None established for general use
- Allergen Information: Rare cases of seed allergy may apply; typically non-allergenic
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, dark place away from air and light
- Container Type: Amber glass or food-grade metal containers
- Shelf Life: 12 to 24 months when stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid oxidation; seal tightly after use
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Compliant with IFRA guidelines for cosmetic formulations
- GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for food use
- Produced under GMP and HACCP certified conditions
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental toxicity
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves for large volume industrial handling
- Handling Guidelines: Use clean equipment and minimize air exposure
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Not applicable under standard use
- Skin Contact: Wash if irritation occurs (rare)
- Eye Contact: Flush with water if exposed
- Ingestion: Safe if food grade; medical supervision for excessive intake
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible; keep away from open flames and hot surfaces
- Extinguishing Media: CO₂, foam, dry chemical, or water spray
- Special Precautions: Wear protective gear to avoid inhalation of combustion products
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide