helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil is a cosmetic ingredient used as emollient, masking, skin conditioning. Rated low hazard by EWG. Assessed as safe by the CIR.
Family
Asteraceae
Plant Part
Seed
Lifeform
Annual
Climate
Temperate
CAS #
8001-21-6
Form
Oil
See origin →
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Masking
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Extracted from sunflowers native to North America, used by indigenous peoples for skin and hair care. Modern cosmetic use became widespread in the 20th century as a lightweight, emollient carrier oil.