What is rosehip oil?

Rosehip oil is derived from the rosa canina rose bush, which is grown mostly in Chile. Unlike rose oil, rosehip oil is pressed from the fruit and seeds of the rose bush. Rosehip seeds contain skin-nourishing vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that make it a wonderful for your skin.

The healing properties associated with rosehip oil make it beneficial for all skin types and concerns. For these reasons, rosehip seed oil can commonly be found in stores.

At Roots and Bloom, we consider rosehip seed oil to almost be a “secret ingredient” when it comes to glowing, clear skin because it is surprisingly not well-known.

Rosehip seed oil benefits for skin

1. Rosehip oil for acne

Rosehip oil can help control breakouts due to its concentration of vitamin A and antioxidants—both have anti-inflammatory benefits to reduce redness and inflammation. Inflamed, irritated skin finds relief from anthocyanin, a flavonoid in the oil that calms and soothes rosacea- and eczema-prone skin while linoleic acid works to reduce the size and severity of pimples.

2. Rosehip oil help fade dark spots

Rosehip oil can help fade dark spots because it contains skin-brightening vitamin C. Dr. Markowitz says “rosehip oil’s antioxidant properties help reduce photodamage, which is one of the causes of dark spots.” However, it won’t produce as dramatic a result as something like hydroquinone, but it is a good option for those who prefer more natural solutions.

3. “Rosehip oil offers an anti-aging effect because of its antioxidant properties, which help limit skin damage,” says New York dermatologist Orit Markowitz, MD. “The antioxidant activity is due to its content of polyphenols, vitamins B, C and E, and carotenoids.

4. Rosehips reportedly have an anti-inflammatory effect, too.” The noncomedogenic oil is said to aid in skin healing and encourage elasticity and collagen production. Plus, it’s compatible with virtually every skin type because it “lowers TH2 IgE and eosinophil levels in the blood, so it is less likely to cause allergic reactions,” explains Dr. Markowitz.

5. Its mix of omegas-3 and -6 softens dry skin while linoleum and oleum acids help restore the skin barrier. However, not everyone feels that rosehip oil is a substitute for a regular moisturizer. “Oils are too thin to act as sealants and usually do not contain humectants, which are two key elements in providing skin moisturization,” says Dr. Markowitz. Dr. Waldorf agrees and recommends layering oils on top of other products. “Oil is occlusive. It seals in the moisture that’s already in the skin, but it doesn’t necessarily add hydration.”