INCI: Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil
Plant oil rich in linoleic acid (omega-6). Restores the lipid barrier in EFA deficiency states, light texture.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Oil high in linoleic acid. Well tolerated, supports skin barrier.
Safflower seed oil (Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil) is a cold-pressed plant oil from safflower seeds. 70-80% linoleic acid (omega-6) – the highest concentration among edible oils. Also contains some oleic acid, vitamin E, phytosterols. Where applied. Creams and serums for dry and damaged skin, barrier-repair products, atopic skin products, carriers for fat-soluble actives (1-30%). In Spain in Bioderma Atoderm, Mustela Stelatopia, in formulas for infants and atopic skin. Evidence base. Wertz 1989 demonstrated that linoleic acid deficiency in epidermis leads to barrier disruption and dryness. Linoleic acid is part of type 1 ceramides and linoleate cholesterol esters. Topical linoleic acid replacement restores the barrier (Cunha 2008, n=15, EFA-deficient patients). Evidence quality for barrier repair – B. Linoleic vs oleic controversy. High-linoleic oils (safflower, grapeseed, high-linoleic sunflower) restore the barrier in acne-prone and dry skin. High-oleic oils (olive, coconut, avocado) – conversely, can disrupt the barrier in the long run due to oleic acid disrupting the intercellular lipid matrix (Danby 2013). Safflower belongs to the 'safe' linoleic group. Safety. CIR confirmed safflower oil safety (Final Report 2014). Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (by actual data, not by internet 'comedogenic scales'). Suitable for acne-prone and atopic skin. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. A natural food oil, no topical restrictions. Orally (culinary) also safe.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Safflower Seed Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Safflower Seed Oil suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Plant oil rich in linoleic acid (omega-6).
The INCI name is Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil. It may also appear as: Safflower Seed Oil, Safflower Oil.
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