Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil is a lightweight, non-greasy plant oil widely used in UK skincare and haircare for its moisturising and conditioning properties. Rich in linoleic acid, it helps soften skin and hair without leaving a heavy residue, making it a popular choice in facial oils, moisturisers, cleansing balms and hair serums.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. Its high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, allows it to integrate well into the skin’s lipid barrier, helping to smooth texture, reduce moisture loss and improve the overall feel of both leave-on and rinse-off formulations. It is also valued in haircare for its ability to add slip, shine and softness without weighing strands down.
Key benefits
- Helps lock in moisture
- Softens and smooths skin texture
- Lightweight feel ideal for layering
- Conditions and adds shine to hair
- Non-comedogenic for most skin types
- Supports skin barrier function
Best for
dry skin, normal skin, combination skin, sensitive skin, mature skin
Where it comes from
Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil is obtained by cold-pressing the seeds of the safflower plant, an annual herb in the Asteraceae family traditionally grown in arid regions of Asia and now cultivated worldwide for both cosmetic and culinary use.