Calendula, Infused in Sunflower Oil, 100 ml

Calendula, macerate in sunflower oil

Macerate from flowers of Calendula officinalis in sunflower oil is used as a soothing oil component in preparations for dry, sensitive and irritated skin. The calendula flowers are infused directly in the oil, so the resulting raw material combines the emollient properties of sunflower oil with fat-soluble compounds from calendula. It is worked with in the same way as a standard vegetable oil. It belongs to the oil phase and can be used on its own or as part of an oil blend.

The raw material contains 20% calendula flowers and 80% sunflower oil; it is plant-based and of European origin.

What it brings to the formulation

• Skin softening – sunflower oil with a predominance of linoleic acid (48 – 75 %) acts as an emollient and, according to the manufacturer, leaves skin smooth and supple.
• Calming irritated skin – calendula is traditionally used in cosmetics for reddened and stressed skin. The manufacturer lists soothing and calming properties for this macerate.
• Moisture support – according to manufacturer data, the oil film limits water evaporation from the skin and helps keep it supple.
• Antioxidant component – the manufacturer states the presence of antioxidants that help protect skin and hair from free radicals.
• Scalp care – according to the manufacturer, it can alleviate the sensation of dry and itchy scalp and contributes to its balanced condition.

The effects of calendula in the finished product depend on the dosage and the rest of the formula. The macerate is a cosmetic raw material, not a medicinal product.

Use in formulation

The macerate is insoluble in water and miscible with oils, so it is added to the oil phase. In anhydrous products (body and massage oils, balms, oil serums, cleansing oils) it forms the base or part of it. In emulsions it is dosed together with the other oils and the emulsion system is chosen according to the total amount of the oil phase. Recommended dosage is 5 – 100 % depending on the product type.

It can be heated to temperatures below 80 °C, which is sufficient for standard hot-process emulsion manufacturing as well as for melting butters and waxes.

The golden-yellow colour shows fully in oil-based products. In emulsions, at higher dosages, it can give a light cream a slightly yellowish tint.

Suitable for products such as

• Body and massage oils – on its own or blended with other oils; also suitable for sensitive skin.
• Creams and lotions for dry and sensitive skin – as part of the oil phase.
• Balms and ointments – in combination with butters and waxes, for example in hand, heel and high-stress area balms.
• Facial oils and oil serums – for problematic and acne-prone skin.
• Cleansing oils and oil-based make-up removers – as a carrier oil together with an emulsifier for rinsing with water.
• Oil treatments for hair and scalp – pre-wash or as an ingredient in hair serums.

Good to know

Sunflower oil with a predominance of linoleic acid gives the macerate the character of a lighter oil. If you need a more nourishing and longer-lasting oil film, supplement it with an oil richer in oleic acid or a vegetable butter.

The raw material is not classified as hazardous and contains no fragrance allergens according to Annex III of the Cosmetics Regulation. It is free from palm oil derivatives, GMO and alcohol.

Frequently asked questions