5 Amazing Benefits Of Sunflower Oil For Your Skin

We usually consider sunflower oil in a supportive role when it comes to skin care. Not surprising because it is widely used as a base oil for massages and as a carrier for essential oils. But this nutty oil can be a star in its own right! Its omega 6 linoleic acid and vitamin E content has a host of benefits lined up for your skin. Here’s a look at all that sunflower oil can do:

# Keeps Skin Moisturized

Do you struggle with dry, rough skin? Sunflower oil can have a soothing effect. It improves hydration by forming a protective emollient on your skin, stopping moisture from escaping. One study compared the effect of applying sunflower oil and olive on the skin for a period of 4 weeks. They found that sunflower oil preserved the integrity of the outer layer of skin and improved hydration while olive oil reduced skin integrity and had a mild reddening effect. Emollients work best when your skin is damp, so dampen your skin and apply a little sunflower oil for beautifully hydrated skin.

# Improves The Barrier Function Of Skin

Sunflower oil can amp up the protective power of your skin! Your skin functions as a physical barrier protecting you from invading germs. Sunflower oil can help the skin by enhancing its barrier function. One study looked at the effect of applying sunflower oil on the skin of preterm babies. It was found that treatment with sunflower oil decreased infection and resulted in a 26% reduction in mortality rates.

# Has An Anti-Aging Effect

Sun exposure plays a significant part in bringing about skin changes that we’ve come to accept as a part of normal aging. But the application of vitamin E, which is present in sunflower oil, can help protect your skin from the damaging effects of sun exposure as well as smoothen skin. It can also help it maintain moisture and speed up the growth of new skin. So, for younger looking skin, dab on a little sunflower oil.

# May Help Treat Acne

Sunflower oil may be able to get rid of your zits. How does it work? Low levels of linoleic acid are thought to cause hyperkeratinization, where an increase in keratin causes dead skin cells to stick together instead of being sloughed off. This leads to clogged skin pores and pimples. One study found that applying linoleic reduced the size of plugged pores or microcomedones by almost 25% in a month. So by applying sunflower oil, you may be able to stop microcomedones in your skin from turning into whiteheads or blackheads.

# May Have A Skin-Brightening Effect

Linoleic acid may also give sunflower oil skin-lightening properties. Studies have found that linoleic acid can reduce hyperpigmentation caused by ultraviolet radiation. It does this by suppressing the production of melanin, the pigment which gives skin its color. It may also enhance the shedding of melanin from the outer layer of your skin. So if you’re looking to get rid of your tan, applying some sunflower oil might help.