What it is
Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract is prepared from the seeds of the sunflower, which are a rich source of lipids and tocopherol-type antioxidants. In cosmetics it is used as a conditioning, emollient-supporting botanical that contributes to a formula's plant-based and antioxidant positioning. It is included as a supporting ingredient and does not provide UV filtration.
Safety & warnings
Sunflower-derived ingredients are generally well tolerated and considered low risk for irritation. Seed-derived material carries a low theoretical concern for those with relevant seed sensitivities, but reactions are uncommon at cosmetic use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; a botanical extract from Helianthus annuus seeds.
Questions everyone asks
What does sunflower seed extract do in a formula?
It acts as a conditioning, antioxidant-supporting botanical and contributes to the emollient and skin-feel character of the product.
Is it the same as sunflower seed oil?
Not exactly; the extract is a preparation of seed constituents, while the oil is the pressed lipid fraction, though both are emollient and conditioning.