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Profile: Safflower Vegetable Oil
Commonly known as:
Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil (INCI), also known as dyer's safflower or dyer's saffron.
Botanical name:
Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius).
Extraction process:
Cold pressing of seeds derived from organic farming.
Family:
Asteraceae.
Part of the plant extracted:
Seeds.
Location:
Originally from the Middle East, now cultivated all over the world.
Flowering:
From July to September.
Provenance, origin:
Phytochemical composition:
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid, linolenic acid); monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid, palmitic acid); saturated fatty acids (stearic acid, myristic acid, arachidic acid); vitamins (B2, B3, E, K); sterols.
Sensorial properties:
Appearance: Clear liquid; Colour: Light golden brown; Scent: Hazelnut; Feel: Dry.
Physical characteristics:
Density: 0.917 - 0.924 g/cm3; Insoluble in water; Soluble in aliphatic and halogenated hydrocarbons; Comedogenicity index: 1 (low comedogenicity); Saponification index: 192; Oxidative potential: Sensitive with an induction time of 3.25 (110°C, 10 L/h).
Benefits:
Soothing, restructuring, repairing, lipid-replenishing, nourishing, emollient, antioxidant, hydrating.
Concerns:
All skin types, particularly damaged skin, mature skin, and sensitive skin; All hair types, especially dry hair.
Details
Applications
Facial Care(masks, moisturising creams, serums, lip balms);
Body Care(exfoliants, hand and foot creams);
Hair Care (shampoos, masks, oils);
Makeups (nail polishes, lip glosses, blushes).
Method of Preservation
Vegetable oil is sensitive to oxidation, therefore it is preferable to store it in a cool place, shielded from heat and light.
Contraindications, Usage Precautions
There are no contraindications to the cosmetic use of safflower oil. However, individuals allergic to Asteraceae should seek medical advice before use. Presumably, pregnant women and young children can use it safely.
Find out more
Known as Dyer's Safflower or Saffron, safflower is a dyeing and oil-bearing herbaceous plant that owes its name to the Greek "kurthum", meaning to dye. Indeed, it was renowned for its colouring properties, providing a yellow or red hue to fabrics before the advent of chemical dyes. In cosmetics, the biochemical composition of safflower vegetable oil bestows numerous benefits. Vitamin E makes it antioxidant, Vitamin K gives it anti-inflammatory properties, while its Omega-6 content imparts soothing virtues.
