Who doesn’t want glowing skin? You can try sunflower seeds as they are high in nutrients that promote healthy skin. Sunflower seeds are high in vitamins and minerals that may do wonders for your skin and overall well-being. In fact, my mother swears by it. She believes that sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects your skin from free radical damage, which may cause premature ageing. They also contain vital fatty acids such as linoleic acid, which helps increase skin hydration and suppleness. Here are all the benefits of sunflower seeds for skin and how to add them to your skincare routine.

What are sunflower seeds?

Sunflower seeds are scientifically known as helianthus annuus which are edible nutrient-enriched seeds. These small, oval, hard, grey, or black shells are typically striped. Sunflower seeds are popular seeds that are mostly consumed raw, roasted, or as an ingredient in dishes. These seeds are highly nutritious and contain healthy fats, proteins, vitamins B1, B2, and E, and minerals which contribute to their popularity in both culinary and health world, as found in a study published in the Recent Progress in Nutrition. These are rich in vitamin E and powerful antioxidants that help protect the skin from oxidative stress. Considering their nutrient properties, sunflower seeds have found their way into skincare routines for promoting healthy and glowing skin.

Sunflower seeds can help you get glowing skin. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Benefits of sunflower seeds for skin

Sunflower seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients that work magically for the skin. Here are some of the skin benefits of sunflower seeds.

1. Rich in antioxidants

Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E, as per a study published in the Recent Progress in Nutrition, which is a powerful nutrient that protects the skin from free radical damage. It protects the skin from ageing signs by neutralising free radicals and helps give the skin a youthful appearance. Plus, the antioxidants in sunflower seeds can help shield the skin from the harmful effects of sunlight, reducing the risk of sunburn along with premature ageing.

2. Nourishes the skin

Sunflower seeds are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, found a study published in Chemistry Central Journal, which are vital for maintaining your skin's hydration and nourishment. It helps to create a barrier on the skin that protects the skin from dryness and retains the moisture within the skin. These fatty acids help to lock in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated, soft, and supple. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, as it helps prevent dryness and flakiness.

3. High in anti-inflammatory properties

“The anti-inflammatory properties in these seeds can help soothe and calm irritated skin. This property makes it best suitable for people prone to skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or acne as they help reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort,” says skin and hair expert Dr Blossom Kochhar. So, if you are suffering from skin conditions mentioned above, incorporating sunflower seeds into your beauty regimen can be helpful.

4. Improves skin elasticity

Sunflower seeds contain essential fatty acids, according to a study published in Chemistry Central Journal that support collagen and elastin production in the skin. Collagen and elastin are proteins that keep the skin firm, elastic, and youthful. Regular consumption or topical application of sunflower seeds or oil can maintain skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of sagging skin and fine lines.

How to use sunflower seeds for skin?

Sunflower seeds can be a simple and effective remedy for your skincare. Here are some easy DIY hacks you can try to get radiant skin, as suggested by the expert.

1. Sunflower seed facial scrub

Ingredients:

• A handful of sunflower seeds
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• A few drops of lemon

Method:

1. Grind a handful of sunflower seeds into a coarse powder and mix with a tablespoon of honey and a few drops of lemon juice.

2. Gently massage this mixture onto your face in circular motions to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells.

3. Wash it off with lukewarm water.

This facial scrub helps remove dead skin cells and gives you glowing skin.

2. Sunflower seed oil moisturiser

Ingredients:

• A few drops of cold-pressed sunflower seed oil

Method:

1. Apply a few drops of cold-pressed sunflower seed oil to your face after cleansing and toning.

2. Massage in an upward circular motion until it gets dissolved in the skin

This oil is lightweight and gets easily absorbed by the skin, providing deep hydration without clogging pores. It is especially beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types.

3. Sunflower seed face mask

Ingredients:

• A handful of sunflower seeds
• 1 tablespoon of yoghurt
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Method:

1. Blend a handful of sunflower seeds with a tablespoon of yoghurt and a tablespoon of honey to form a thick paste.

2. Apply this mask to your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes and rinse off with regular water.

This mask will hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture.

4. Sunflower seed and aloe vera gel for acne

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of sunflower seed oil
• 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel

Method:

1. Mix sunflower seed oil with fresh aloe vera gel to create a soothing acne treatment.

2. Apply this mixture to affected areas and leave it on overnight.

The anti-inflammatory properties of both ingredients help reduce redness and heal acne-prone skin.

5. Sunflower seed bath soak

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of ground sunflower seeds
• A few drops of essential oil (jojoba or tea tree oil)

Method:

1. Add a cup of ground sunflower seeds and a few drops of essential oil (jojoba or tea tree oil) to a warm bath.

2. Soak in this nourishing bath to hydrate your skin and relax your muscles.

This bath soak is particularly beneficial for soothing dry and irritated skin.

6. Sunflower seed toner

Ingredients:

• Green tea - 1 tea
• A handful of sunflower seeds
• Cotton pads

Method:

1. Brew a green tea using sunflower seeds and let it cool.

2. Use this mixture as a natural toner by applying it to your face with a cotton pad.

The toner will help tighten pores, refresh the skin, and add a natural glow.

Sunflower seeds can be a good addition to your skincare routine. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Side effects of sunflower seeds for skin

While sunflower seeds offer numerous benefits for skin health, there can be some potential side effects to be aware of. It is advisable to conduct a patch test before using sunflower seed-based products on a larger area of the skin. Also, consult with your doctor before using sunflower seeds for the skin.

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to sunflower seeds or sunflower seed oil, leading to skin irritation, redness, itching, or swelling.
• Risk of acne breakouts: Although sunflower seed oil is generally non-comedogenic, individuals with very oily skin may experience acne breakouts if the oil is used excessively.
• Potential for sun sensitivity: Sunflower seed oil contains linoleic acid, which can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
• Over-exfoliation: DIY scrubs made from sunflower seeds can be abrasive if not prepared correctly. Over-exfoliating with such scrubs can damage the skin barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity.
• Possible contamination: Improper storage of sunflower seeds can lead to contamination with mould or bacteria, which can cause skin infections when used in DIY treatments.

Takeaway!

Sunflower seeds are a versatile ingredient for skin care, offering multiple benefits due to their rich nutrient profile. However, like all skincare ingredients, they should be used thoughtfully to avoid potential side effects. By understanding their properties and how to use them safely, you can enjoy the many advantages they offer for healthy, glowing skin.

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