Before starting Sisu I actually hadn't dabbled with safflower oil. I had heard of the commonly known oils like rosehip and grape seed but this one seemed more like a cooking oil...
I was, I soon learnt, sleeping on this incredible oil.
As is the case with every ingredient I even consider putting on my skin I started researching. The research into safflower oil have me the buzz
Safflower oil, extracted from the seeds of the safflower plant, has garnered attention in the skincare and hair care industries due to its rich composition of beneficial compounds such as linoleic acid, oleic acid, and various vitamins. Here, we explore the scientifically backed benefits of safflower oil for skin and hair health.
Skin Benefits
1. Moisturizing and Hydration
Safflower oil is an excellent moisturizer due to its high linoleic acid content, which helps to reinforce the skin's barrier, preventing moisture loss and maintaining hydration. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.
2. Anti-inflammatory Properties
The oil's phytosterols have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing redness and irritation. This makes it effective for soothing conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and general skin inflammation.
3. Anti-Aging Effects
Safflower oil may help in delaying the signs of aging. It inhibits enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin firm and elastic. Although this has mainly been demonstrated in vitro, its potential for wrinkle prevention and skin tightening is promising. One study showed safflower oil had impressive benefits against UV. SSO and acacetin have excellent potential as alternative anti-wrinkle ingredients.
4. Brightening and Hyperpigmentation
The oil also shows potential in brightening the skin and reducing hyperpigmentation. Its ability to inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production, could help in managing dark spots and achieving an even skin tone.
5. Healing Properties
Safflower oil aids in wound healing by promoting collagen synthesis and angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), which are crucial for tissue repair. This makes it beneficial for treating acne scars and minor skin injuries.
Hair Benefits
1. Hydration and Strengthening
Safflower oil's high content of unsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, helps to moisturize and strengthen hair. It reinforces the hair's hydrolipidic film, enhancing its protective barrier against environmental damage.
2. Scalp Health
The oil soothes the scalp by reducing inflammation through the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It can also help control microbial growth, reducing dandruff and other scalp issues.
3. Hair Growth Stimulation
Some studies suggest that safflower oil may stimulate hair growth. Linoleic acid and β-sitosterol in the oil can activate pathways that promote the transition from the shedding phase to the growth phase of the hair cycle. Although more research is needed, early results are promising.
4. Protection Against Oxidative Stress
The antioxidant properties of safflower oil protect hair from oxidative stress caused by pollution, UV rays, and other environmental factors, which can lead to hair damage and loss.
Safflower oil offers a range of benefits for both skin and hair, making it a versatile addition to any beauty regimen. Its hydrating, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and protective properties make it especially suitable for those looking to improve skin health and maintain strong, healthy hair. While further research is always beneficial, current studies highlight the promising potential of this natural oil.
For those considering incorporating safflower oil into their routine, it's always advisable to choose high-quality, cold-pressed variants to ensure maximum efficacy and benefit.
References
(https://us.typology.com/library/safflower-oil-and-hair-what-are-the-benefits) (https://us.typology.com/library/what-you-need-to-know-about-safflower-oil).
Safflower Seed Oil and Its Active Compound Acacetin Inhibit UVB-Induced Skin Photoaging
Eun Hee Jeong,1,† Hee Yang,1,† Jong-Eun Kim,corresponding author2,* and Ki Won Leecorresponding author1,*
