Overview
More people are turning to safflower for topical use, in both body oil and essential oil formats. You’ll also find it listed as an ingredient in many commercial skin-care formulations.
Although safflower oil may offer advantages for skin health, these applications haven’t been extensively researched or firmly supported by scientific studies.
The safflower plant (Carthamus tinctorius) is recognizable by its vivid yellow and orange blooms. Pure safflower oil is extracted from the plant’s seeds.
Safflower oil for skin
Safflower oil might provide some benefits for the skin, but the scientific evidence behind these claims is limited. Some preliminary studies suggest safflower oil could have analgesic properties as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Topically, safflower oil is used in certain skincare products and cosmetics because of its moisturizing qualities. It can help the skin look smoother and feel softer.
Safflower oil vs. safflower essential oil
Safflower cooking oil is the edible product obtained from pressing the seeds. As a viscous liquid, it resembles other vegetable oils. It’s often used in culinary and medicinal contexts, and it can also be applied to the skin.
Safflower oil also serves as a carrier oil for blending with other essential oils.
Essential oil forms of safflower come from the distillation or pressing of the petals and flowering parts. Despite the term “oil,” these extracts don’t have the same oily consistency as culinary safflower oil. Pure safflower essential oil must be diluted before skin application. You should avoid ingesting essential oils because they are more concentrated and may contain other compounds.
How can you use safflower oil for your skin?
Ready-made cosmetics that contain safflower oil require no special preparation—simply follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Pure, edible safflower oil and safflower body oil can be applied directly to skin with no additional steps.
Safflower essential oils, however, need to be diluted before use. Mix a few drops into a small amount of carrier oil prior to applying. If you want extra hydration, consider coconut or almond oil. For oily skin, jojoba or grapeseed oils are preferable carrier options. You can also explore safflower oil healthy cooking oil as an edible alternative that doubles as a topical moisturizer.
Because safflower oil is generally regarded as safe for consumers, it may be suitable for daily use. Essential oils, being more potent, are intended for short-term use. Stop using them if you detect signs of irritation such as rashes or hives.
Keep in mind the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not oversee or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. Choose a reputable brand to ensure quality.
Safflower oil for acne
Although applying oil to acne may seem counterintuitive, safflower oil is considered noncomedogenic, meaning it’s unlikely to clog pores. Its anti-inflammatory qualities might help reduce pimples and acne spots. Used a few times a week, it may also assist in keeping pores clear.
Use safflower oil as an overnight spot treatment, or try a simple face mask:
- Mix safflower oil with oatmeal and honey.
- Apply the blend to all or part of your face.
- Rinse off with water after 10 minutes.
Read more about essential oils for acne.
Safflower oil for eczema
Eczema is a prevalent skin disorder characterized by inflammatory reactions. While severe cases often need medical treatment, certain diet changes and topical remedies can help soothe affected skin patches.
When consumed, safflower oil may aid the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A and E. These antioxidant vitamins play a role in maintaining cellular health.
As a topical emollient, the linoleic acid in safflower oil is believed to support the outer skin barrier and help prevent flaking.
Apply pure safflower oil directly to eczema-prone areas as often as needed. If you’re using diluted essential oil, limit application to once or twice daily.
Read more for 8 natural remedies to reduce eczema symptoms.
What are the risks of using safflower oil for your skin?
The FDA classifies safflower oil as an “indirect food additive” commonly used in the food industry. There aren’t major widespread safety concerns for its internal or external use on skin.
Still, like any new skincare ingredient, check your tolerance by performing a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product to the forearm and wait 24 to 48 hours to observe any adverse reaction. If no rash or irritation develops, it’s likely safe to continue use.
Be cautious about ingesting safflower essential oils, as they may cause gastrointestinal side effects.
Other treatments
While clinical proof for pure safflower oil’s skin benefits is limited, several other natural remedies can be useful for dry and inflamed skin conditions:
- lavender essential oil
- coconut oil
- olive oil
- turmeric
- tea tree oil
- argan oil
The takeaway
Safflower oil is commonly included in commercial cosmetics as a moisturizing component. However, the therapeutic claims for pure safflower oil and its essential oil form aren’t firmly established by clinical research. Generally safe to use, safflower oil can still cause irritation in some people. If acne, eczema, or other inflammatory skin problems persist, consult a dermatologist.
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