Sunflower Oil is the non-volatile oil expressed from sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds. Sunflower oil is commonly used in food as a frying oil, and in cosmetic formulations as an emollient.

Chemical structure

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Sunflower oil is a triglyceride, typically with a high linoleic acid content. Sunflower oil's fatty acid profile is extremely influenced by environmental factors. The British Pharmacopoeia lists the following profile:

• Palmitic acid : 4.0 per cent to 9.0 per cent,
• Stearic acid : 1.0 per cent to 7.0 per cent,
• Oleic acid : 14.0 per cent to 40.0 per cent,
• Linoleic acid : 48.0 per cent to 74.0 per cent.

Sunflower oil typically contains lecithin, tocopherols, carotenoids and waxes. Sunflower oil displays chemical properties typical of a vegetable triglyceride oil.

Physical properties

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Sunflower oil is liquid at room temperature. The refined oil is clear and slightly amber-colored with a slightly fatty odor.

Uses

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As a frying oil, Sunflower oil behaves as a typical vegetable triglyceride. In cosmetics, it has smoothing properties and is considered noncomedogenic. Only the high-oleic variety possesses shelf life sufficient for commercial cosmetic formulation. Sunflower oil's INCI name is Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil.

References

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Cosmetic chemicals | Cooking oils | Vegetable oils

Sonnenblumenöl | Aceite de girasol | Zonnebloemolie