Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract

What it does

Helianthus annuus extract is a water-soluble extract derived from the flowers, leaves, or stems of the sunflower plant. It is not the same as sunflower seed oil (which is lipid-based and emollient) — the extract provides polyphenols, flavonoids, and chlorogenic acid that function as antioxidants, neutralizing reactive oxygen species and providing mild anti-inflammatory support. It appears as a supportive secondary ingredient in serums, essences, and moisturizers rather than as the primary active. Concentrations used in most formulas are low, and large controlled human trials are limited. Sensitization risk is low; it is generally compatible with the full routine.

Also known as

sunflower extract, sunflower flower extract, sunflower plant extract

Pairs worth knowing