Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil

Irritancy: 0-0Comedogenicity: 0-0Emollient

Fungal-acne trigger

The details

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil is a plant oil derived from the seeds of a sunflower. It is rich in fatty acids, primarily linoleic acid and oleic acid . This gives it emollient and skin conditioning properties. The reason this ingredient is so effective is because it forms a thin film on the skin that reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) while supplying linoleic acid to the stratum corneum to improve barrier strength. The high linoleic acid content is particularly noteworthy for acne-prone skin. Research suggests that acne-prone skin tends to be deficient in linoleic acid in sebum. Topical application may help replenish this to support a healthier follicular environment and less comedone-promoting sebum. One randomized study found sunflower seed oil preserved skin barrier integrity in adult volunteers with and without atopic dermatitis (outperforming olive oil ). This ingredient is well-studied, gentle, and an effective emollient suitable for most skin types. On fungal acne: This ingredient may not be Fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) safe. This is because it contains fatty acids with carbon chain lengths in the C11-C24 range.