Benefits of Sunflower Seed Oil on Hair

Native to North America, the sunflower (also known as Helianthus Annuus) is a bright and cheerful plant belonging to the daisy family. Able to grow up to 3.5 metres tall with yellow flowers up to 50cm (almost 20 inches) wide, the sunflower has been used by First Nations People since approximately 3000 BC, for cooking, medicinal, grooming and decorative purposes. In fact, some archaeologists believe that the domestication of sunflowers predates that of corn. Some time in the 1500s, the plant was brought to Europe by the Spanish. Symbolising everything from happiness to loyalty, resilience, growth and vitality, the sunflower is also believed to have a sacred connection to the all-powerful sun, as its yellow flowers resemble the star at the centre of Earth’s solar system. Hårklinikken founder, Lars Skjøth, has always had a particular fascination with sunflowers, and how the name reflects the sunflower's natural behaviour. The French word for sunflower, "tournesol," is derived from two words: "tourner," which means "to turn," and "sol," which means "sun.” This is because sunflowers exhibit a behaviour known as heliotropism; where young sunflowers turn their heads to follow the sun from east to west during the day.

What is exactly sunflower seed oil?

A natural oil obtained through the seeds of sunflower plants, sunflower seed oil is often derived through cold-pressing (a method of expeller-pressing kept at low temperatures) or through solvent extraction with hexane (when the oil and solvent are then refined to remove residue). Sunflower seed oil differs in composition and texture from other oils used in scalp and hair products – like olive, argan and abyssinian oils – and overall is lighter than most.

How does sunflower seed oil benefit hair?

Sunflower seed oil is packed with nutrients and contains high levels of vitamin E (a great antioxidant), oleic acid (rich in omega-9 fatty acid), and linoleic acid (high in omega-6 fatty acid). These properties can offer protection from oxidative stress, while also helping to reduce frizz and dryness.

How is Hårklinikken’s sunflower seed oil different?

Harklinikken uses cold-pressed sunflower seed oil; obtaining the oil without heat or chemicals to help preserve its nutrients and antioxidant properties. This process yields a clear to slightly honey-hued oil that’s lightweight and smooth.

What does sunflower seed oil add to Hårklinikken’s Styling Spray?

With excellent absorption properties, our sunflower seed oil is particularly nourishing and conditioning, which means our Styling Spray doesn’t dry out hair like many others on the market. It also tames frizz and adds shine to hair without leaving it greasy or weighed down.