What it is
Sunflower seed wax is a hard, high-melting vegetable wax obtained from sunflower seed oil. It is used to give structure to stick formats, stabilize emulsions, and adjust thickness, and it can lend a smooth, glossy feel. In stick and balm sunscreens it helps hold the product in a solid form while contributing emollient slip.
Safety & warnings
Sunflower seed wax is generally well tolerated and is often chosen as a plant-based alternative to other waxes. It is not a fragrance allergen; as a wax it has a low irritation profile, though heavy, occlusive wax-based balms may not suit those prone to clogged pores.
Origin & sourcing
It is a naturally derived, plant-based wax produced from the seeds of the sunflower, Helianthus annuus, typically through processing of the seed oil.
Questions everyone asks
What is Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera?
It is sunflower seed wax, a hard plant-derived wax made from sunflower seeds, used to thicken and structure products such as sticks and balms.
Why is sunflower wax used in sunscreen sticks?
Its high melting point helps hold the formula in a solid stick form while adding smooth emollient slip during application.