Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract, commonly known as sunflower seed extract, is a natural ingredient derived from the seeds of the sunflower plant (Helianthus annuus). It is widely used in cosmetic and personal care products for its nourishing, moisturizing, and antioxidant properties. Rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids, sunflower seed extract helps protect the skin and hair from environmental damage, improving their overall health and appearance.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Sunflower seed extract contains a combination of fatty acids, such as linoleic acid (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9), as well as vitamins like vitamin E (tocopherol), a powerful antioxidant. These components provide deep hydration and protection against free radicals, which are responsible for premature skin aging.

Physical Properties

Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract typically occurs as a white, brown or yellow powder and it can be easily incorporated into many cosmetic formulations, including creams and hair care products, thanks to its lightweight texture and fast absorption properties.

The name describes the structure of the molecule

• "Helianthus Annuus" is the scientific name for the sunflower. "Helianthus" comes from the Greek and means "sunshine," while "Annuus" indicates that it is an annual plant.
• "Seed"means that the extract comes from the seeds of the sunflower plant.
• "Extract" signifies that the product is a substance obtained by extracting desired components from sunflower seeds, usually through processes such as infusion, decoction, or percolation.

Production Process

The extract is obtained through the cold pressing of sunflower seeds, a process that preserves the beneficial properties of the oil, including its nutrients and antioxidants. After extraction, the oil is refined to remove impurities, making it suitable for use in cosmetic products. 

Description of raw materials used in production

• Helianthus annuus seeds - Sunflower seeds.

• Solvent - Water, alcohol, or another suitable solvent for extracting beneficial compounds from the seeds.

Step-by-step summary of industrial extraction process

• Harvesting and Preparation - Sunflower seeds are harvested and cleaned.
• Extraction - The seeds are steeped in the solvent for a specified duration, allowing the beneficial compounds to diffuse into the solvent.
• Filtration - After extraction, the solution is filtered to remove residual solid particles.
• Concentration - If necessary, the solvent is evaporated to yield a more concentrated extract.

What it is for and where

Cosmetics

Hair conditioning agent. A significant number of ingredients with specific and targeted purposes may co-exist in hair shampoo formulations: cleansers, conditioners, thickeners, matting agents, sequestering agents, fragrances, preservatives, special additives. However, the indispensable ingredients are the cleansers and conditioners as they are necessary and sufficient for hair cleansing and manageability. The others act as commercial and non-essential auxiliaries such as: appearance, fragrance, colouring, etc. Hair conditioning agents have the task of increasing shine, manageability and volume, and reducing static electricity, especially after treatments such as colouring, ironing, waving, drying and brushing. They are, in practice, dispersants that may contain cationic surfactants, thickeners, emollients, polymers. The typology of hair conditioning agents includes: intensive conditioners, instant conditioners, thickening conditioners, drying conditioners. They can perform their task generally accompanied by other different ingredients.

UV absorber. It acts by intercepting ultraviolet light before it can cause damage by reducing its energy through dissipation and returning it to a lower energy state.

Skin conditioning agent - Miscellaneous.  This ingredient has the task of modifying and improving the condition of the skin when it is damaged or dry, reducing flaking and restoring its elasticity.

CAS   84776-03-4   8001-21-6

EC Number    232-273-9

Food

Sunflower seeds are very nutritious and have an 'antioxidant action for the human body, however, no substantial resolutely beneficial action on the human body has been demonstrated (1).

Commercial Applications

Cosmetics and Skincare. Used for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties, it helps keep skin hydrated and protects against free radical damage.

Hair Care Products. Used in shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments for its nourishing and protective properties against environmental damage.

Natural Cosmetics. Often incorporated in natural or organic formulations due to its natural origin and skin benefits.

Sun Care Products. Due to its antioxidant properties, it can be used in sun care products to help protect the skin from UV ray damage.

Health and Safety Considerations

Safety in Use

Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract is considered safe for use in skin care and cosmetic products. It is well tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive skin. There are no significant side effects associated with its use at the concentrations commonly found in cosmetics.

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions to sunflower seed extract are rare. However, individuals with specific allergies to sunflower seeds should be cautious when using products containing this ingredient.

Toxicity and Carcinogenicity

There is no evidence that Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract is toxic or carcinogenic. It is considered a safe and effective ingredient for use in cosmetic formulations, particularly in skin and hair care.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Sunflower seed extract is biodegradable and environmentally sustainable. Sunflower cultivation is eco-friendly, and the extraction process is natural and has a low environmental impact.

Regulatory Status

Helianthus Annuus Seed Extract is approved for use in cosmetics in many regions, including the European Union and the United States. It is a widely used natural ingredient and is regulated to ensure its safety in cosmetic formulations.

References________________________________________________________________________

(1) De Lira-García C, Bacardí-Gascón M, Jiménez-Cruz A. Efectiveness of long-term consumption of nuts, seeds and seeds' oil on glucose and lipid levels; systematic review.  Nutr Hosp. 2012 Jul-Aug;27(4):964-70. doi: 10.3305/nh.2012.27.4.5781.

Abstract. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of long-term consumption of nuts, seeds and vegetable oil (NSO) on weight, glucose, and lipid levels....Conclusion: No evidence of long-term improvement of NSO on weight, glucose or lipids in the adult population was found.