Safflower Seed Oil
Plant oil rich in linoleic acid (omega-6). Restores the lipid barrier in EFA deficiency states, light texture.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Oil high in linoleic acid. Well tolerated, supports skin barrier.
- Wright S, Burton JL. Lancet. 1982;2(8308):1120-2. (RCT линолевой кислоты при атопическом дерматите) PMID 6128449
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is Safflower Seed Oil safe during pregnancy?
Safflower Seed Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Safflower Seed Oil for?
Safflower Seed Oil suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Safflower Seed Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Plant oil rich in linoleic acid (omega-6).
What's the INCI name for Safflower Seed Oil?
The INCI name is Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil. It may also appear as: Safflower Seed Oil, Safflower Oil.
See Safflower Seed Oil in a product composition right on the store page
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