Buzz
Move over olive oil—safflower oil is making its way into everything from salads to sweets. Also known as Carthamus tinctorius seed oil, it's derived by cold pressing safflower seeds, resulting in a rich oil loaded with linoleic acid.
This crucial fatty acid provides numerous advantages for your skin, especially its ability to remove dirt and oil without stripping away moisture from your skin and hair [source: Personal Care Products Council]. Plus, organic safflower oil is often a more affordable option compared to expensive skincare items at the beauty store.
If you have dry skin, safflower oil is your friend. It creates a protective barrier that prevents moisture from escaping, keeping your skin hydrated and radiant. You'll find it in many everyday products like moisturizers, hair treatments, and face cleansers. It helps soften dry spots, smooth out rough patches, and improves both the texture and tone of your skin. You can use it on its own or mix it with other oils for an added beauty boost.
Unlike mineral oil and lanolin, which can irritate your skin, safflower oil is gentler and less likely to cause irritation. It's also one of the best—and most affordable—sources of linoleic acid, which could be your secret ally in preventing acne [source: Leong].
While some dermatologists remain cautious about natural oils, beauty experts generally consider safflower oil to be safe. Dr. Kristie Leong, a family physician and contributor to Yahoo's Health & Wellness, explains that acne sufferers are often advised to avoid pore-clogging products, but safflower oil might actually be helpful for acne-prone skin.
Dr. Leong cites a study in Clinical Experimental Dermatology which found that applying linoleic acid to the skin for a month led to a noticeable reduction in the size of blackheads and whiteheads [source: Leong].
That said, if you have existing skin conditions, you should still be cautious when using safflower oil. Consulting a dermatologist is a wise step before trying natural oils, as they can assess your skin and hair types to recommend oils that will work best for you. Even small amounts of aggravating ingredients can trigger flare-ups [source: Wright]. Because of its moisturizing qualities, safflower oil is a great option for those with normal to dry skin.
Incorporating safflower oil into your diet can also benefit your skin. A 2007 study revealed that diets rich in linoleic acid and vitamin C helped improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in middle-aged and older women [source: Leong]. If you cook with safflower oil, pair it with vitamin B-rich foods (like leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains) to boost its absorption [source: Buzzle]. You can also take safflower oil as a supplement.
Lastly, because safflower oil is sensitive to heat and light, it’s best to buy it in a brown glass bottle and refrigerate it after opening to preserve its quality [source: Buzzle].
