INCI page

HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED CERA

Last update on Oct 9, 2024
Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera is a natural wax derived from the seeds of the sunflower plant that provides texture-enhancing and emollient properties in cosmetics and personal care products. It is particularly valued for being a plant-based and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic and animal-derived waxes like beeswax. This ingredient consists of long-chain fatty acids, triglycerides, and phytosterols that give it its skin-softening, hydrating, and anti-inflammatory benefits. In its raw form, Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera appears as a solid, waxy material with a light yellow to pale beige color. This wax is typically odorless and can be heated to melt down into a clear, viscous liquid.
CAS Number: 68937-99-5Chem/IUPAC Name: Helianthus Annus Seed CeraEINECS/ELINCS No: 273-107-5COSING REF No: 56522

Products with HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED CERA

See all products
With samples available

What is HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED CERA used for?

Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera is used in cosmetics as a natural emollient, thickening agent, and film-former. It is commonly found in lip balms, lipsticks, and moisturizers, where it provides a smooth texture and helps lock in moisture. The wax forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing water loss and enhancing hydration. It also improves the viscosity and stability of creams, lotions, and ointments. In makeup products like foundations and mascaras, it enhances spreadability and wearability. Additionally, Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera is used in hair care products for conditioning, frizz control, and adding a lightweight, natural hold.

Origin

Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera is made by extracting oil from sunflower seeds, followed by a hydrogenation process. First, sunflower seeds are mechanically pressed or solvent-extracted to obtain sunflower oil. This oil is then hydrogenated, a process that adds hydrogen to unsaturated fatty acids, converting the liquid oil into a solid wax. The hydrogenation stabilizes the wax, making it more resistant to oxidation. The final product is purified and processed into flakes or pellets.

What does HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED CERA do in a formulation?

EMOLLIENT|
FILM FORMING|
HAIR FIXING|
HUMECTANT|
STABILISING|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Safety Profile

Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera is considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. The wax is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. There are no significant safety concerns or toxicity issues associated with its use. However, individuals with sunflower allergies should patch-test products containing this ingredient to avoid potential allergic reactions. It is also an eco-friendly, biodegradable ingredient, contributing to sustainable formulations.

HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED CERA alternatives

No data available

HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED CERA technical profile

Property Values
Melting Point 75-80°C
Solubility Insoluble in water; soluble in oil
Viscosity Medium