What is rosehip oil?
Rosehip oil is also known as rosehip seed oil. It is derived from the canine rose bush, which is grown mainly in Chile.
Unlike rose oil, which is extracted from rose petals, rosehip oil is extracted from the fruit and seeds of the rose plant.
Prized since ancient times for its valuable healing benefits, rosehip oil is loaded with nourishing skin vitamins and essential fatty acids. It also contains phenols that have been shown to have antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Rosehip oil is often used as a carrier oil for essential oils that are too intense to put directly on the skin.
Read on for more information on how rosehip oil can benefit your skin and how to add it to your skincare routine.
1. Hydrates
Hydration is essential for soft and supple skin. Lack of hydration can be a problem during extreme weather or as the skin ages.
Rosehip oil contains a large amount of essential fatty acids, including linoleic and linolenic acids. Fatty acids help keep cell walls strong so they don’t lose water.
The many fatty acids in rosehip oil make it an excellent choice for hydrating dry, itchy skin. The oil is also easily absorbed by the skin, allowing its antioxidants to travel deep into the layers of the skin.
2. Hydrates
Hydration helps retain the skin’s natural hydration and added oils.
A 2015 Study Reliable Source The use of rosehip powder suggests that rosehips offer several anti-aging properties, including the ability to keep skin hydrated. The researchers found that participants who took rosehip powder orally experienced noticeable improvements in overall skin moisture.
You can also receive these benefits by applying rosehip oil topically. Rosehip oil is a dry or non-greasy oil. This makes it a great natural moisturizer for all skin types.
3. Helps exfoliate and lightens the skin.
Natural exfoliation with rosehip oil can help reduce opacity and leave skin shiny and vibrant.
This is because rosehip oil is rich in vitamins A and C. Vitamin A, or retinol, stimulates skin cell turnover. Vitamin C also aids in cell regeneration, increasing overall luminosity.
4. Helps increase collagen formation
Collagen is the basic component of the skin. It is essential for the elasticity and firmness of the skin. Your body naturally produces less collagen as you age.
Rosehip oil is rich in vitamins A and C, which are necessary for the production of collagen. Rosehip has also been shown to be a reliable source of inhibiting the creation of MMP-1, an enzyme that breaks down collagen in the body.
Research also supports these benefits. In one reliable 2015 study, the researchers found that participants who took rosehip powder orally experienced a marked increase in skin elasticity.
5. Helps reduce inflammation
Rosehip is rich in polyphenols and anthocyanins, which can help reduce inflammation. It also contains vitamin E, an antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory effects.
With this in mind, rosehip oil can help soothe irritation resulting from:
6. Helps protect against sun damage
The accumulated damage of a lifetime from sun exposure plays a major role in premature aging. Exposure to UV rays can also interfere with the body’s ability to produce collagen.
Rosehip oil contains antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E. These vitamins have been shown to synergistically combat visible sun damage. They can also help prevent photoaging.
With this in mind, rosehip oil can be used to help reduce the negative effects of UV exposure. But it should not be used in place of sunscreen. Talk to your doctor or dermatologist about how you can safely use both in your skincare routine.
7. Ayuda a reducir la hiperpigmentación
Hyperpigmentation occurs when excess melanin forms dark spots or patches on the skin. This can be the result of several factors, including:
- Sun exposure
- hormonal changes, such as with pregnancy or menopause
- certain medications, including birth control pills and chemotherapy drugs
Rosehip oil is rich in vitamin A. Vitamin A is made up of various nutritional compounds, including retinoids. Retinoids are known for their ability to reduce hyperpigmentation and other visible signs of aging with regular use.
Rosehip oil also contains lycopene and beta carotene. These ingredients are said to have reliable skin-lightening properties, making them basic ingredients in many skin-lightening products.
Animal studies indicate that rosehip extract contains melanin-reducing properties Reliable source, and may warrant further studies for use in humans.
8. Helps reduce scarring and fine lines
Rosehip oil is rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which are essential for the regeneration of tissues and cells in the skin. It is no wonder that the oil has long been used as a popular remedy for wound healing, as well as for the reduction of scars and fine lines.
A reliable 2015 Study on rosehip powder showed a significant reduction in the appearance of fine lines around the eyes, also known as crow’s feet, after eight weeks of treatment. Participants in this study consumed the powder orally.
In a separate 2015 study, participants with postsurgical scars treated their incision site twice daily with topical rosehip oil. After 12 weeks of use, the group using rosehip oil experienced significant improvements in scar color and inflammation compared to the group that did not receive topical treatment.
9. Helps increase immunity
Rosehip oil is rich in antioxidants and polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as linoleic acid, which are essential to prevent the breakdown of cell membranes in the skin. Strong and healthy cells act as a barrier to prevent bacteria from invading the skin, which can lead to outbreaks and infections.
In animal and human studies, rosehip powder has been shown to be a reliable source for strengthening the strength and longevity of skin cells. Rosehip powder was also shown to be a reliable source for reducing the production of MMP-1, an enzyme that breaks down cellular structures like collagen.
How to use rosehip oil
Rosehip oil is a dry oil that is easily absorbed into the skin.
Although generally safe for all skin types, you should do a patch test before your first use. This will ensure that you are not allergic to oil.
To do this:
- apply a small amount of rosehip oil to your forearm or wrist
- cover the treated area with a bandage or gauze
- after 24 hours, check the area for signs of irritation
- If the skin is itchy or inflamed, you should not use rosehip oil (consult your doctor if irritation persists)
- If the skin shows no signs of irritation, it should be safe to use elsewhere.
Once you’ve done a patch test, you can apply rosehip oil up to twice a day. The oil can be used alone, or you can add a few drops to another carrier oil or your favorite moisturizer.
Rosehip oil can get rancid quickly. To help extend its shelf life, store the oil in a cool, dark place. You can also keep it in your refrigerator.
Although slightly more expensive, cold-pressed organic rosehip oil is recommended for purity and best results.
Popular options include:
- Radha Rosehip Oil
- Kate Blanc Rosehip Seed Oil
- Majestic Pure Cosmeceuticals Rosehip Oil
- Life-Flo Organic Pure Rosehip Seed Oil
- Teddie Organics Rosehip Seed Essential Oil
Possible side effects and risks
Rosehip oil is generally safe for all skin types, but allergic reaction is not uncommon. Before using rosehip oil for the first time, you should do a patch test to make sure your skin can tolerate the oil.
See your doctor if you start to experience:
- red and itchy skin
- watery and itchy eyes
- irritated throat
- nausea
- vomiting
Anaphylaxis is possible in severe cases of allergic reaction. Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you begin to experience:
- labored breathing
- panting
- swollen mouth, throat, or face
- fast heartbeat
- stomach ache
The bottom line
Rosehip oil has a long history as a therapeutic remedy and beauty product. It is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that are valued for their ability to nourish the skin.
Scientific studies showing the promise of rosehip oil make it an intriguing choice for anyone looking to reduce the visible signs of aging, eliminate scarring, or improve their skincare routine. Not only is it reasonably affordable and easy to use, it is generally considered safe for all skin types.
Credits: Healthline Media