Do you use sunflower oil in cooking? Here's why your skin and hair should benefit from it too.
Highly regarded for its culinary uses, the’sunflower oil also deserves a place of honor in skin and hair care. Plant-based and rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, it has remarkable properties in dermatology and cosmetology. But what does science reveal about this oil? How does it affect the epidermis, scalp, and hair fiber?
1. Origin and extraction method: an ancient vegetable oil that is still very much in use today
Sunflower oil is extracted from the seeds of’Sunflower, a plant native to America, cultivated in Europe since the 16th century.
The process of cold pressure is most valued in cosmetics. It preserves the integrity of unsaturated fatty acids (omega-6 and 9) and heat-sensitive vitamins without the use of chemical solvents. The oil obtained is more stable, less oxidized, and therefore more effective dermatologically.
2. A biochemical composition that is beneficial for skin and hair
Sunflower oil is a natural cocktail of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, fat-soluble vitamins, and phytosterols, which work synergistically to maintain skin balance.
- Linoleic acid (omega-6) : between 55 % and 70 %, essential for skin barrier cohesion.
- Oleic acid (omega-9) : up to 30% TP4T, provides flexibility and elasticity to the skin.
- Saturated fatty acids : such as palmitic acid, which has an emollient effect.
- Vitamin E (tocopherols) : powerful anti-free radical action.
- Vitamin A : regulation of keratinization.
- Vitamin D : involved in cell regeneration and hair growth.
- Phytosterols (β-sitosterol, campesterol) enhance collagen synthesis and modulate inflammation.
- Polyphenols complement the antioxidant action.
3. Dermatological benefits: an ally for sensitive and fragile skin
Hydration and maintenance of the skin barrier: The fatty acids contained in sunflower oil restore the skin's hydrolipidic film and limit imperceptible water loss. This makes it an ingredient of choice for dry, atopic, or irritated skin.
Antioxidant activity: Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals, which are responsible for premature aging and UV-induced skin damage.
Proven anti-inflammatory properties: Linoleic and oleic acids reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Studies show an improvement in the symptoms of psoriasis or mild dermatitis after regular application.
4. Hair benefits: protection, nourishment, and potential stimulation of growth
Deep hair nutrition: The oil penetrates the hair cuticle thanks to its compatible lipid composition, acting as an intercellular cement. It repairs damaged ends and limits dehydration.
Antioxidant shield for hair fiber: Vitamin E protects hair against oxidative stress, which is involved in hair loss, breakage, and premature graying.
Soothing the scalp: Phytosterols and fatty acids relieve itching, redness, and inflammation of sensitive scalps.
5. Is it comedogenic? What science says
Comedogenicity rating: 0
Classified as non-comedogenic in several dermatological studies, sunflower oil penetrates the skin quickly without clogging pores. This is due to its high linoleic acid content, a fatty acid known to improve inflammatory acne by increasing sebum fluidity.
6. Precautions and contraindications
- Sunflower seed allergy : avoid topical use in sensitive individuals.
- Oxidative instability : The oil will quickly become rancid if not stored properly. Store in a dark place, in an airtight container, and use within 6 months.
- Use in infants : not recommended as a precautionary measure, due to a potential risk of skin barrier imbalance.
