What it is
Helianthus Annuus Sprout Extract is derived from the young germinated shoots of the common sunflower, harvested at the sprout stage when the plant is rich in soluble phytonutrients. In cosmetic formulations it is added as a plant-based conditioning agent intended to support the appearance of healthy, comfortable skin. It is typically used at low concentrations within the water phase of emulsions, serums, and sun care products.
Safety & warnings
Botanical extracts derived from sprouts are generally well tolerated in topical use. As with any plant-sourced ingredient, individuals with known sensitivities to the Asteraceae (daisy/Compositae) family, to which sunflower belongs, may wish to use caution. It is not classified as a comedogenic oil.
Origin & sourcing
Natural, plant-derived. It is produced by germinating sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds and extracting the resulting sprouts, usually into a water or water-glycol solvent.
Questions everyone asks
What is sunflower sprout extract used for in sunscreen?
It is added as a botanical conditioning and antioxidant-supporting ingredient to help the formula feel comfortable on skin, rather than as a UV filter.
Is it the same as sunflower seed oil?
No. This extract comes from germinated sunflower sprouts and is typically water-based, while sunflower seed oil is a lipid pressed from the mature seeds.