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Ingredient · INCI reference

Carthamus Tinctorius Oleosomes

Carthamus Tinctorius Oleosomes are intact oil-storage bodies isolated from safflower seeds, used as a natural emollient and delivery vehicle.

What it is

Oleosomes are naturally occurring micro-droplets in which plant seeds store oil, each surrounded by a protein-phospholipid membrane. Carthamus Tinctorius Oleosomes are these intact oil bodies extracted from safflower seeds, used in cosmetics as an emollient and as a way to carry and gradually release lipophilic ingredients without heavy processing. They give a light skin feel and can reduce the need for added emulsifiers.

Safety & warnings

Safflower-derived oleosomes are generally well tolerated. As with other plant seed oils, sensitivity is uncommon but possible in individuals with relevant botanical allergies.

Origin & sourcing

Natural plant material consisting of intact oil-storage organelles harvested from the seeds of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius).

Questions everyone asks

What are oleosomes?

They are the natural oil-storage bodies inside plant seeds, each wrapped in a protein and phospholipid membrane, here isolated from safflower seeds.

Why use safflower oleosomes in sunscreen?

They act as a lightweight emollient and natural carrier for oil-soluble ingredients, and can reduce the need for added emulsifiers.

Sources & references

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