Sunflower oil contains high amounts of linoleic (50-74%) and oleic (14-35%) fatty acids, making it a great oil for all skin types. The unrefined version is especially beneficial for acne-prone skin due to its high linoleic acid content. With a comedogenic index of 0, it is unlikely to clog pores. According to The National Sunflower Association, American Indians in the Arizona and New Mexico areas used both the plant and its oil over 5000 years ago, as early as 3000 BC.
Sunflower oil is the non-volatile oil pressed from the seeds of the sunflower (Helianthus annuus). Sunflower oil is commonly used in food as a frying oil, and in cosmetic formulations as an emollient.
Sunflower oil is primarily composed of linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated fat, and oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat. Through selective breeding and manufacturing processes, oils of differing proportions of the fatty acids are produced. The expressed oil has a neutral taste profile. The oil contains a large amount of vitamin E.
As of 2017, genome analysis and development of hybrid sunflowers to increase oil production are under development to meet greater consumer demand for sunflower oil and its commercial varieties.
In 2018, Ukraine and Russia together accounted for 53% of the world's production of sunflower oil.
