8 of the best rosehip oils for soothing your skin

Rosehip oil has long been hailed for its ability to boost cell regeneration, speed up skin healing and improve skin texture and tone. Because of this, it has a whole host of benefits for our complexion. Before we dive into these in more detail, allow us to explain wtf rosehip oil actually is...

First things first, rosehip oil is different to rose oil (confusing, I know) which comes from rose petals, rosehip oil is pressed from the seed. It is rich in essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 as well as regenerative vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, and K that promote repair, increase moisture and reduce signs of ageing.

You can find it in a bunch of different products and it is often blended into other oils and creams. The most efficacious formulas, though, are pure rosehip oils.

What are the benefits of using rosehip oil?

You'll be pleased to know, the list of benefits is long (even more reason for you to reach for a bottle). Let's get into below...

Skin Healing

Rosehip oil is advised for those suffering from scarring such as acne marks. This is because it is an amazing skin healer that has historically been used to help wounds heal faster - yep, this isn't a new discovery. You can thank the cocktail of fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants for rosehip oils potent skin-saving abilities.

Anti-Ageing

As we age our skin loses elasticity and moisture, causing fine lines, wrinkles and roughness. Alongside delivering, long-lasting hydration, rosehip oil ramps up collagen production and as a result, increases skin elasticity. When elasticity is improved our skin has more stretch and is better able to snap back into shape so is smoother, softer and less wrinkled.

Exfoliation and brightening

Because of its high vitamin A content, rosehip oil possesses exfoliation properties. We're not talking acid levels by any means, but by using it daily you're encouraging cell turnover and sloughing away dead skin. Vitamin C - one of the best base brighteners going - is a powerful antioxidant that also aids skin regeneration, fighting off free radicals caused by external aggressors like pollution and UV damage. It diminishes dark spots (otherwise known as hyperpigmentation) thanks to its clever ability to inhibit melanin production and promote radiance.

Soothes inflammation

Sensitive, irritated and acne-prone complexions can also benefit from rosehip oil. High amounts of vitamin E, polyphenols and anthocyanin have anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm stressed-out skin, reducing redness and irritation. This makes it great for people with reactive skin conditions like eczema and extreme dryness. Anti-microbial properties provide relief from breakouts, while the healing powers prevent their recurrence and reduce scarring. Omega-6 derived linoleic acid, has also been found to regulate sebum, helping to rebalance and refine oily, spot prone complexions.

How should I use rosehip oil?

Rosehip oil should be applied like any other oil: massaged into freshly cleansed skin until absorbed. It can be used twice daily, morning and night, though it is a good idea to introduce slowly and see how your skin reacts. We suggest starting off using it before bed each night. Dispense a few drops into clean hands and press into skin. You will get the best results by using a pure form of rosehip oil, so it's a good idea to go for an unblended formula.

Is rosehip oil good for oily or blemish-prone skin?

We know what you are thinking; adding oils to oily skin can’t be good. But, rosehip oil is actually what is known as a ‘dry oil’. This means the skin soaks it up very quickly, so it is unlikely to clog any pores – hooray. Also, rosehip oil contains retinoids, which can help to reduce the appearance of blemishes, inflammation and promote healing.

What is the best rosehip oil?

Equipped with all the rosehip knowledge you could ever need, now you can choose your formula from our edit of the best bottles in the biz. These are the ones we'd take home to mamma...