Sunflower oil (CAS 8001-21-6) — Floral Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Sunflower oil
CAS 8001-21-6
What Is Sunflower oil?
Sunflower oil is a common vegetable oil extracted from sunflower seeds, widely used in cooking, skincare, and haircare products. Its light texture and mild aroma make it a versatile ingredient in both food and cosmetic formulations. In perfumery, sunflower oil serves primarily as a carrier oil rather than a fragrance component, valued for its skin-nourishing properties and ability to blend well with essential oils.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Sunflower oil Smell Like?
Sunflower oil has a very mild, slightly nutty aroma that is barely perceptible in most formulations. Its scent is clean and neutral, making it an excellent carrier for more potent fragrances. The oil lacks significant top, heart, or base notes, serving primarily as a neutral base that doesn’t interfere with other scent components. When used in perfumery, it contributes more to texture and skin feel than to olfactory profile.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Sunflower oil is rarely used as a fragrance ingredient but commonly appears as a carrier oil in natural perfumery and aromatherapy blends.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Sunflower oil is a triglyceride composed primarily of linoleic acid (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9). The exact fatty acid profile varies depending on the sunflower cultivar and growing conditions. It’s obtained through mechanical pressing or solvent extraction of sunflower seeds. High-oleic varieties have been developed for increased oxidative stability. The oil contains natural tocopherols (vitamin E) which act as antioxidants.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow liquid |
|---|---|
| Flash Point | ~320 °C |
| Density | 0.92 g/cm³ |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carrier Oil | 100% | 100% | Primary base for fragrance dilution |
| Skincare | 5-20% | 1-100% | Moisturizing agent |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use cold-pressed, unrefined sunflower oil for natural perfumery applications requiring maximum skin benefits.
Alternatives & Comparisons
More stable liquid wax ester with longer shelf life, preferred for premium formulations.
Odorless, non-greasy alternative with indefinite shelf stability.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions – sunflower oil is not regulated by IFRA.
RIFM Assessment
Sunflower oil has been assessed as safe for cosmetic use by RIFM.
Sustainability
Sunflower oil production is generally sustainable, with sunflowers being drought-resistant crops that require fewer pesticides than some other oil crops. The oil is biodegradable and non-toxic to aquatic life. Organic and fair-trade certified options are available for environmentally conscious formulations.
Explore Sunflower oil
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References
- PubChem Compound Summary for Sunflower Oil PubChem
- USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference USDA
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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