11 Rosehip Oil Benefits, Possible Side Effects, & How To Use It

The benefits of rosehip oil extends beyond skin care as it is also considered good for your overall health. It is derived from the hips and seeds of Rosa canina. It is loaded with essential fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and E and offers a range of benefits. It can prevent early signs of aging and reduce stretch marks. This article discusses the benefits of rosehip oil, how to use it, and its side effects. Keep reading.

Know Your Ingredient: Rosehip Oil

What Is It?
An oil extracted from the petals of the wild rose bush (Rosa Rubiginosa).

What Are Its Benefits?
It may stimulate collagen production, reduce scars and stretch marks, and lighten the skin tone.

Who Can Use It?
Those with acne-prone skin or hair problems can benefit from it.

How Often?
Regularly, but in moderation.

Caution
Avoid using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have kidney or heart-related ailments.

What Is Rosehip Oil Good For?

The vitamins present in the oil serve as antioxidants that help fight the free radicals. And the essential fatty acids in the oil, namely oleic, linoleic, palmitic, and gamma linoleic acids, are absorbed by the skin and converted into prostaglandins. These compounds play a role in the regeneration of tissues and cellular membranes. The oil also helps improve skin health and can have anti-aging effects on the skin.

Rosehip oil, a nutritional powerhouse, is rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids that contribute to overall health and well-being, particularly skin health and regeneration.

It contains significant amounts of vitamins A and C, with vitamin C concentrations ranging from 400 to 1500 mg/100g in mature rosehips, surpassing common fruits like apples and currants.

Furthermore, this oil contains various other beneficial compounds, such as carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene) and tocopherols (vitamin E) that contribute to its antioxidant properties and overall skin health benefits (1).

Trivia

Rosehip oil is extracted from rosehips, which are essentially the fruits that grow on rose bushes. They can be collected after roses die off on a bush. The best quality rosehip oil is produced from the fruits of Rosa canina and Rosa rubiginosa.

The oil has an oily smell (like most oils), and, when mixed with vitamin E, lasts for as long as two years. Well, now, we get into the details.

What Are The Benefits Of Rosehip Oil?

There are many skin, hair, and health benefits of rosehip extracts. A few prominent rosehip benefits are listed below.

1. Fights Acne And Improves Facial Skin

As per experts, acne may be an indication of undernourished skin. When your skin is undernourished, it tends to secrete excess sebum or oil, which can lead to acne breakouts. Rosehip oil contains powerful nutrients that fortify the skin and improve its health. Using rosehip oil for acne may provide a targeted solution, as it nourishes the skin, and unclogs pores (it is non-comedogenic), thus preventing acne and pimple breakouts. Simply apply the oil to your face using a cotton ball in the morning, at least 15 minutes before you take a bath. Wash as usual.

Sonia Anastasia, a beauty and lifestyle vlogger, used rosehip oil for her acne-prone skin and found visible results in a week. Her acne started flattening and her skin became more moisturized. She said, “My whole face would still stay moisturized until the evening and I would forget to apply it because my skin literally just didn’t really need it (i).”

You can also use the oil as a moisturizer to combat dry skin. But since it might leave your skin looking greasy (although this is unlikely), apply it using a cotton pad at least 20 minutes before bedtime. Before you sleep, remove the excess oil using a cotton pad. In addition, you can also mix rosehip oil with hyaluronic acid – which is a well-loved skin care ingredient with amazing moisturizing properties.

Interestingly, rosehip oil can also treat oily skin. Oily skin is usually lacking in linoleic acid, and since rosehip oil is rich in this fatty acid, it can take care of the issue. However, research is limited here. So, consult your dermatologist.

2. Has Anti-Aging Properties

Rosehip contains vitamins A and C that stimulate collagen production and offer anti-aging benefits. They reduce wrinkles (especially around the eyes) and fine lines. Therefore this oil can be a great home remedy to get wrinkle-free skin. The oil also contains lycopene, which has skin-rejuvenating properties. If you are looking to avoid using chemicals on your face, rosehip oil could be a good option. It is also known to treat dark spots.

3. Helps Lighten Skin

Rosehip oil can be used to lighten your skin tone. Since it is particularly beneficial to treat dark spots, it can help with skin brightening. The astringent properties of the oil tighten your pores and also help brighten your skin.

You can simply mix two to three drops of rosehip oil with a drop of coconut oil and massage into your skin. This method can also help banish under-eye dark circles.

4. Helps Treat Various Skin Ailments

Rosehip oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help treat the inflammation and pain caused by eczemaⁱ  An inflamed skin disorder caused due to exposure to pollutants, harsh soaps, and skin care products and fabrics such as wool. . It also moisturizes the skin and keeps it from drying out – which is another issue eczemaⁱ  An inflamed skin disorder caused due to exposure to pollutants, harsh soaps, and skin care products and fabrics such as wool. sufferers face. Vitamins A and C in the oil restore skin elasticity as well. Simply clean the affected areas with water. Pat dry using a clean, soft cloth and apply three drops of rosehip oil to the skin. Allow it to dry naturally. Repeat once daily before taking a bath.

For rosaceaⁱ  A chronic and common inflammatory skin condition characterized by visible blood vessels and blushing or flushing facial skin. treatment, you can mix a few drops of rosehip oil with grape seed or almond oil and apply to the affected areas every morning before taking a bath. The same remedy can also be used for treating hyperpigmentation and keratosis pilarisⁱ  A common, harmless, genetic skin condition that causes small, red painless bumps on your arms and legs. . Applying rosehip oil to rashes might also help soothe them, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

However, if you have sensitive skin, applying any undiluted essential oils on the skin can cause severe allergic reactions. Make sure to consult your dermatologist before using it for skin concerns.

5. Helps Heal Burns And Bruises

Thanks to the regenerating and antioxidant effects of rosehip oil, you can accelerate the recovery of burns and bruises. And the presence of essential fatty acids can prevent scarring as well. The application of rosehip oil was also found to treat keloid scarsⁱ  Harmless, thick, raised scars that usually form on earlobes, shoulders, cheeks, or chest due to a skin injury. and accelerate wound healing.

6. Heals Dry And Cracked Lips

Rosehip oil can also be used to lighten the discoloration of the lips. It also protects them from sunburns. Mix two drops of rosehip oil with one teaspoon of coconut oil. You can use butter in the place of coconut oil. Apply this natural lip conditioner on your chapped or cracked lips several times a day.

You can also apply rosehip oil as a lip balm – this helps treat flaky lips.

7. Enhances Eyelashes

Thicker and stronger eyelashes always add to one’s looks. And with rosehip oil, that is quite possible. Simply dab a cotton ball with two to five drops of the oil and apply it gently to your eyelashes.

8. Can Reduce Stretch Marks

Stretch marks occur when the collagen and elastic in your skin tear and, as a result, form scars. Rosehip oil is easily absorbed by the skin. Its essential fatty acids stimulate collagen production. The oil also softens and moisturizes the epidermisⁱ  The outermost, visible layer of the skin that protects the body against mechanical, thermal, and physical damage. . The fatty acids get converted into prostaglandins, which then stimulate your skin’s regenerative powers. This ultimately protects against stretch marks.

Simply apply a few drops of rosehip oil to the problem areas – this can include your chest and abdomen as well. This procedure can also help treat melasma, which is hyper pigmentation that occurs during pregnancy.

9. Can Treat Joint Pains

Surprisingly enough, rosehip oil is a folk remedy for joint pains. One study showed how rosehip powder could help relieve joint pains without any side effects (2). Though the study talks only about the benefits of the powder, rosehip, in other forms, was also found to be effective. Applying the oil to the joints multiple times a day can offer relief as the essential fatty acids help fight inflammation.

However, do consult your doctor before using rosehip oil for this purpose.

10. Improves Nail Health

Rosehip oil can strengthen your nails and protect them from breakage. The fatty acids take care of this. Massage the oil into your nails once a week.

11. Can Boost Hair Growth

There are many benefits to using rosehip oil for hair. The oil is an excellent source of fatty acids that repair damaged hair follicles and scalp tissues. It also promotes healthy hair growth.

The oil also moisturizes your hair, provides hydration, and prevents dryness. And given its antibacterial properties, rosehip oil can also be used as a scalp tonic. Its anti-inflammatory properties can promote scalp health.

Quick Tip

Rosehip oil is typically packaged in amber-colored bottles to prevent UV exposure, which otherwise can degrade the oil. Ideally, you should store the bottle in a dark and cool place (away from sunlight and below 20 degrees Celsius).

As you saw, rosehip oil has important benefits. You also can use it on your face in various ways to reap its therapeutic benefits. Continue reading to learn about the different ways you can incorporate it into your skin care routine.

How To Use Rosehip Oil On Face

• Use As A Moisturizer: Apply a few drops of rosehip oil to your clean face. Gently massage it into your skin as you focus on the dry or problem areas. Follow it up with your regular moisturizer to seal in the oil.
• Add To Your Serum: Add a drop or two of rosehip oil to your serum and apply it to your face to enhance its hydrating and rejuvenating effects.
• Add To Your Night Cream: Add a few drops of rosehip oil to your night cream to boost the skin healing process while you sleep.
• Add To Your Makeup Formula: Mix a few drops of rosehip oil with your foundation for a smooth, dewy base.

These are the ways rosehip oil can make you (and your life) much beautiful. But it is important to know that not everything is rosy about this oil.

What Are The Side Effects Of Rosehip Oil?

• Issues During Pregnancy And Breastfeeding

There is not enough information on what would happen with the intake of rosehip oil during this period. Hence, avoid it. And with respect to topical usage, you can check with your doctor.

• Bleeding Disorders

A chemical in rosehip (rugosin E) can slow down blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Don’t use it if you have bleeding disorders. And don’t take the oil at least two weeks before and after surgery.

• Kidney Stones

The large amounts of vitamin C in the oil might cause kidney stones. So, don’t use it if you have kidney disorders.

Trivia

Rosehips contain such large amounts of vitamin C that, during World War II, when availability of citrus fruits was scarce in Britain, syrups made from rosehips were used as a substitute to keep cold and flu at bay.

Heart Attack And Stroke

The rugosin E in the oil might cause blood clots, and this can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Hence, please consult your doctor before use.

*Though not an established concern, the vitamin C in the oil may affect diabetes control. So, please consult your doctor before using it.

Besides these major side effects, rosehip oil can cause some additional discomfort in people who are sensitive or allergic to it. Learn more about its other side effects in the next section.

Other Side Effects Of Rosehip Oil

• Increased heart rate
• Rashes
• Itchiness
• Watery eyes
• Skin irritation
• Wheezing

Infographic: Benefits Of Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil is one of the most used ingredients in skin care products. It is known for its skin moisturizing properties. Rosehip oil also offers many other benefits along with improving skin health.

The following infographic provides information about the various benefits of rosehip oil. Check it out!

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between rosehip oil and rosehip seed oil?

Rosehip oil is what we get from the flower petals, and rosehip seed oil is what we get from the seeds. But since rosehip seed oil is what is widely used, the term is used interchangeably.

Which parts of the world is rosehip oil extensively used?

It is majorly used in South Africa and Europe (including Norway and Ireland). Other countries include New Zealand, China, India, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, and Singapore.

Is rosehip oil a retinol?

Yes, rosehip oil contains trans-retinoic acid (the active form of retinol) which is commonly used in cosmetics and prescription medicines due to its regenerative properties (3).

What is the difference between rose oil and rosehip oil?

The major difference between rose oil and rosehip oil is that the former is extracted from the petals of the rose plant and the latter from the fruit of the plant.

What is the difference between organic and inorganic rosehip oil?

Organic oils are produced from organically grown plants that involve no use of fertilizers or pesticides. Inorganic oils might be produced using plants that were grown using fertilizers, pesticides, or chemicals. Organic oils, in general, are considered purer and more efficient.

Illustration: Rosehip Oil Benefits Possible Side Effects & How To Use It

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Discover the amazing benefits of rosehip oil and learn how to use it for healthier skin and hair! Watch this video now.

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Dr. Scott JohnsonAMP, CCMA, CEEOS, CPC

 

Dr. Scott A. Johnson is a Board Certified Alternative Medical Practitioner, Certified Elite Essential Oil Specialist, and Certified Clinical Master Aromatherapist with 7 years of experience. As one of the most prolific natural medicine writers of the 21st century, Dr.

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Ravi Teja TadimallaCo-Editor-in-Chief

 

Ravi Teja Tadimalla is a Co-Editor-in-Chief and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over a decade. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University.

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Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief

Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

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Sindhu KogantiSenior Health & Wellness Writer

Sindhu Koganti is a Certified Health and Nutrition Life Coach and has over 6 years of experience in writing on health and wellness topics. She has a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology from Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, and a diploma in nutrition from Fab Academy.

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