Sunflower Oil for Skin: Can It Relieve Eczema?

Thinking about clean skin care options to hydrate and calm your skin? Moisturizers that contain plant-based ingredients like sunflower oil may help, such as those from Abby Rose. Find out more about the pros and cons of sunflower oil for skin care to make an informed decision when choosing products for eczema or other skin concerns.

What Is Sunflower Oil?

Sunflower oil comes from the seeds of the sunflower plant (Helianthus Annuus). This oil naturally contains high amounts of healthy compounds for your skin. These compounds include vitamin E, linoleic acid, oleic acid, and sesamol and they contribute to its natural ability to soothe, hydrate, and protect the skin.

Benefits of Sunflower Oil

The non-comedogenic, protective, and soothing properties of sunflower oil make it a popular addition to plant-powered skin care solutions. Choosing skin care products that contain sunflower oil may help the skin to naturally produce ceramides which are essential for a properly functioning skin barrier. 

Non-Comedogenic

Clogged pores trap bacteria in the skin, leading to breakouts. Non-comedogenic ingredients, such as sunflower oil, absorb well and moisturize the skin without blocking pores. When combined with other gentle, non-comedogenic ingredients in a skin care product, sunflower oil can be beneficial in helping all skin types stay hydrated and clear. 

Antioxidant

One of the components of sunflower oil is the antioxidant vitamin E. Antioxidants in skin care products fight the negative impacts of the sun on the skin, which may include premature aging and the appearance of wrinkles. With regular antioxidants in your diet and skin care products, your body has the tools needed to reduce the signs of skin aging.

Protects and Strengthens the Skin Barrier

Sunflower oil contains linoleic acid, a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. When you apply sunflower oil to the skin, it forms a barrier that protects the skin and prevents moisture loss. This can help keep the skin hydrated and fresher, as dry skin can look dull and flaky. Sunflower oil's capacity to protect and strengthen the skin barrier makes it an ideal addition to Abby Rose’s Moisture Lock product. This petroleum-free skin protectant uses organic, natural ingredients to nourish and moisturize dry skin without the use of harsh preservatives or fragrances.

Soothes Irritated Skin

If you have dry, irritated, or inflamed skin from eczema; skin care products containing sunflower oil can provide soothing relief through its anti-inflammatory and fatty acid influences on the skin. This is why it's a main ingredient in Abby Rose Soothe-X balm, soap, and oil. These plant-based products are able to gently nourish, moisturize, soothe and protect severely dry or eczema-prone skin.

Negatives of Sunflower Oil for Skin

It is not common, but those with allergies to ragweed pollen, nuts, or sunflower seeds may experience a sensitivity to sunflower oil applied topically. 

It is always best to conduct a patch test before introducing a new product into your skin care routine. This is a simple process of applying a small amount of product to the inside forearm that isn’t likely to be rinsed off for 24-48 hours. Watch for any redness, itching or raised skin. If the skin remains calm and happy, you are likely safe to use it.

How to Use Sunflower Oil for Eczema

Those with eczema-prone or chronically dry skin require daily diligence with skin care. Using a high quality moisturizer is one of the easiest and best ways to keep dry, itchy skin and flare-ups at bay.  Sunflower oil packs a punch and is able to tackle eczema and inflammation-prone skin from many different angles with its ability to soften, soothe, moisturize, nourish and protect the skin barrier. 

If you are dealing with troubled skin, consider starting a three-step approach to your skin care with the sunflower oil-containing Soothe-X line.  Soothe-X soap gently cleanses the skin without stripping the skin of natural oils. Soothe-X oil applied from head to toe immediately after bathing soothes the skin and seals in the moisture. Soothe-X balm applied at least twice daily to the extra dry, irritated areas will calm the skin and provide a thick protective barrier against moisture loss. Soothe-X products work best when used consistently as directed. They may be used alone or in combination with other prescribed treatments.  

Soothe-X™ Soap $8         Soothe-X™ Oil $18         Soothe-X™ Balm $22       Soothe-X™ Skin Care $45