Rosehip oil has become hugely popular in skincare in recent years. Extracted from the seeds of wild rose bushes, rosehip oil is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins. From brightening dull skin to treating hyperpigmentation or tackling skin ageing, to its fan’s there’s seemingly nothing that rosehip oil can’t do! In this article, we’ll dive into the science behind the benefits of rosehip oil and explore what it can actually do for skin. We’ll also explore the best way to use rosehip oil in your skincare routine.
What Is Rosehip Oil?
This is a plant-based oil derived from wild roses, particularly the Rosa canina which is typically found in the Andes Mountains. Unlike rose essential oil, which is extracted from the petals, rosehip oil comes from the fruit and seeds of the rose plant. It is popular due to its lightweight texture and high concentration of nutrients. Rosehip oil has a long history of use in beauty and health. For centuries, people in the Andes Mountains, particularly Indigenous communities, used it to heal damaged skin, fade scars and treat burns.
Today, rosehip oil is popular in skincare with numerous scientific studies confirming its benefits across all skin types. The key components of Rosehip oil which make it a nourishing skincare ingredient are:
- Essential Fatty Acids (Omega-3, 6 and 9): These strengthen and repair the skin barrier, locking in moisture for a healthier complexion.
- Vitamins A and C: These vitamins actively promote skin cell turnover, improve skin tone and brighten dull complexions.
- Antioxidants (e.g., Lycopene): These powerful defenders protect the skin from environmental damage and neutralise harmful free radicals.
- Phenols: Natural antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal compounds help maintain clear and balanced skin.
Benefits of Rosehip Oil for Skin
Rosehip oil offers a wide range of benefits for improving the health and appearance of skin.The main benefits of rosehip oil for skin include:
- Light-weight Hydration: Rosehip oil deeply hydrates the skin while maintaining a light non-greasy texture. Its high concentration of essential fatty acids strengthens the skin’s barrier and locks in moisture. This helps keep skin soft and supple. Even those with oily or acne-prone skin can benefit due to its non-comedogenic ability to hydrate skin without clogging pores.
- Supports Acne-Prone Skin: Thanks to phenols and vitamin E, rosehip oil has anti-inflammatory properties which help calm redness and irritation from breakouts. Rosehip oil is also rich in linoleic acid, which balances sebum production and prevents clogged pores. Additionally, its antibacterial properties provide a natural defence against acne-causing bacteria.
- Fades Scars & Hyperpigmentation: Rosehip oil is packed with vitamin C and natural retinoids. It encourages skin cell turnover and brightens discoloured areas to gradually even out and smooth your complexion.
- Stimulates Collagen: Collagen is essential for maintaining skin’s firmness and elasticity. By boosting collagen production, rosehip oil can help soften fine lines, smooth skin texture and enhance elasticity.
- Calms Skin: Rosehip oil’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent choice for reducing redness and irritation. Studies show it can help calm skin in inflammatory conditions like rosacea, eczema and sensitivity. Rosehip oil helps calm and balance the skin.
- Protects Skin from Environmental Damage: Rich in antioxidants, rosehip oil can help protect skin from environmental aggressors like UV radiation, pollution and free radicals. These stressors can worsen acne, lead to dullness and accelerate ageing. Whilst rosehip oil doesn’t replace sunscreen, it adds an extra layer of protection for your skin.
- Brightens & Smooths Skin: The mix of vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants in rosehip oil makes a skin revitalising elixir. It can brighten dull skin and smooth uneven texture for healthy looking glowing skin.
How to Use Rosehip Oil in Your Skincare Routine
Adding rosehip oil to your skincare routine is straightforward and there are a few options. Before you start though, here are our top tips for the best way to use Rosehip oil in your skincare orutine:
- Find a Quality Product: Opt for cold-pressed rosehip oil, as this extraction method preserves its nutrient content. Also try to find products that are certified organic and free from added fragrances, preservatives or fillers to minimise the risk of irritation and maximise benefits. Packaging also matters! It’s best to go for oils stored in dark glass bottles to protect against degradation.
- Prep Skin: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and makeup, ensuring your skin is clean and ready to absorb the oil.
- Layer Correctly: Apply any toners, essences and serums first. Rosehip oil should go before any cream moisturisers or sunscreen. You only need a few drops and be sure to massage them onto your skin.
- Be Consistent: You need to be patient and diligent. Results can vary, but many people notice improved hydration and radiance within a few weeks. For scar fading and hyperpigmentation, consistent use for 8–12 weeks is best.
Safety & Precautions
Rosehip oil is generally safe and well-tolerated by most skin types. However, as with any skincare product, it’s important to use it correctly and understand its limitations. Potential side effects include:
- Increased Sun Sensitivity: Rosehip oil contains natural retinoids, which may make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
- Irritation or Allergic Reactions: Although rare, rosehip oil can cause mild irritation or an allergic reaction, particularly in sensitive individuals.
- Breakouts: While generally non-comedogenic, some people may experience breakouts, especially if the oil is overused or applied in large amounts.
Whilst the majority of skin types and most people could benefit form rosehip oil, there are a few people who should avoid or exercise extreme caution. These include:
- Individuals with Plant or Seed Allergies: Those allergic to roses, rosehip, or similar plants should avoid using rosehip oil.
- People with Severe Acne or Rosacea: While rosehip oil may help mild to moderate acne or redness, those with severe inflammatory conditions might find it aggravating.
- Compromised Skin Barrier: If your skin is severely irritated, over-exfoliated, or damaged. Wait until the barrier has healed before introducing rosehip oil.
Additionally, there are a few tips to follow to reduce the risk of side effects and increase safety:
- Patch Test First: Always perform a patch test before applying rosehip oil to your face to check for any adverse reaction.
- Use Sunscreen: If applying rosehip oil in the morning, follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, as it may increase sun sensitivity.
- Avoid Overuse: A few drops go a long way. Over applying can lead to greasiness or clogged pores, especially in oily skin types.
- Store Properly: Keep rosehip oil in a cool, dark place and ensure the bottle is tightly sealed to prevent oxidation and preserve its potency.
Ultimately, if you suffer from severe allergies, a medical condition or skin disease always seek medical advice. Consult with your family doctor or a Dermatologist before trying rosehip oil or any new skincare products.
Rosehip oil is a hard-working all-rounder that offers hydration, anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory and protective skin benefits. Its versatility and compatibility with most skin types make it an increasingly popular skincare staple for healthier, clearer and more radiant skin. As with anything in life, consistency is key and rosehip oil works best as part of a complete skincare routine
At City Skin Clinic, we are beyond passionate about personalised skincare. We offer safe and effective compound skincare treatments with prescription-strength ingredients. These include Tretinoin and Hydroquinone where appropriate through online skin clinic. Our doctors treat a range of conditions such as acne and scars, hyperpigmentation, melasma, skin ageing. To start your personalised skincare plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin starts here.
