Scientific name: Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil
Classification: Vegetable Oil
Emollient, moisturizing, antioxidant, skin-friendly.
Stories from Nature
Safflower oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of Carthamus Tinctorius, also known as “zafferanone” due to its resemblance to the spice produced by Crocus Sativus. Similar to ginger, its seeds contain between 30 and 55% oil and have an acid composition that varies depending on the variety. It is a very ancient plant of Asian origin that later spread to East Africa. In the past, it was cultivated in Egypt, China, Ethiopia, and the Mediterranean basin.
Traces of safflower have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs dating back to 3500 B.C., and there appear to be references to it in traditional Chinese medical texts from 1061. Safflower oil has long been used to produce cosmetics and natural dyes. Even today, Buddhist monks’ robes are dyed with the oil extracted from these flowers. In painting, on the other hand, safflower seed oil is used to thin paints and slow down the drying process.
In addition to its culinary uses, safflower oil is used in cosmetics as an emollient in skincare products, such as moisturizing body creams and face creams. When applied topically, it can be used as a natural moisturizer for dry skin or as a cleansing oil.
Skin Benefits
Its high linoleic acid content makes it ideal for improving the quality and appearance of the skin. It is extremely rich in vitamins C, E, and K, which, when combined with omega-6 fatty acids, provide an effective defense against free radical damage while nourishing the entire skin.
For a softening effect and deep hydration—ideal for hands that have lost their softness.
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Restorative: Thanks to its very high concentration of linoleic acid (Omega-6), it repairs and strengthens the hydrolipid barrier—often compromised by sun exposure—preventing deep dehydration.
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Antioxidant: Its naturally high Vitamin E content helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV rays, actively combating photoaging and the formation of wrinkles.
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Skin-friendly: It has an extremely light, non-comedogenic texture that makes it ideal for the face; it absorbs easily without leaving a greasy residue or clogging pores.
