5 Amazing Benefits of Rosehip Oil for Skin

Rosehip contains the highest amount of vitamin C among fruits and vegetables, and also contains vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, D, E, and K.  Writing in 600 b.c. the Greek poet Sappho named Rosehip 'Queen of Flowers' on account of their beneficial properties. Similarly they were revered by early Christians who considered rosehips to be sacred, crafting the first rosary beads from rose hips. Rosehip come from the fruits of the Rosa species of which there are more than 10,000 cultivated varieties of this fragrant native to Europe and the Middle East.

Rosehip Oil or Rosehip Seed Oil comes from the seeds of the rosehip fruit. The fruit of this flower is within the numerous fine hair-like achenes nestled within the hip, each with their own tiny seed.  Among the most valued of rose species are Rosa rugosa and Rosa canina. Rosa canina also known as dog rose was so named as it was believed it was powerful enough to cure the poison from a rabid dog bite, contains the highest levels of Vitamin C of all the varieties. During World War 2 there was a scarcity of citrus fruits, as dog rose grew so abundantly in woods, along hedgerows and embankments this variety of rose hip were harvested and processed for their nutritional qualities and Vitamin C as a preventative measure against scurvy. 

Due to its immensely biologically active profile Rosehip has traditionally been used as a treatment against a wide range of ailments and is known to have immunosuppressive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, analgesic, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, gastroprotective, and skin ameliorative effects (you can read the paper here). 

So what wonders does this plant potent powerhouse do for the skin? 

Let's look at 5 benefits for skin:

1. Increases Production of Collagen

A 2018 study found that Rosehip Oil may be useful for repairing the skin's natural barrier. Collagen is essential for skin elasticity and firmness, and as we age the body makes less...fortunately there's good news as Rosehip Oil is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C which is necessary for the production of collagen. In studies Rosehip has been shown to inhibit MMP-1 an enzyme that breaks down collagen in the body. Rosehip is also rich in Vitamin E which stimulates blood flow to the skin and hair, increasing the collagen production, bringing a glow to skin.

 

2. Treats scars

The combination of a powerful trio of beauty ingredients - anti inflammatory fatty acids,  vitamin A and C this oil work to fade scars fast. Often referred to as a 'dry' oil as it absorbs into the skin quickly and is non comedogenic meaning it doesn't clog the pores, it's rich antioxidant profile means it is useful in treating a number of skin conditions. Rosehip Oil has been shown over a 12 week study to reduce discolouration the appearance of scars. The essential fatty acids and Vitamin A in Rosehip Oil help minimise or prevent scarring through the promotion of new skin growth and regeneration. Fatty acids help keep damaged skin hydrated so that a wound can heal quickly without drying out and tearing the skin around the scar area so it has a protective quality.

3. Clears up acne and blemishes

It is packed with plant phenols which are shown to have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Rosehip oil is also rich in anthocyanin and Vitamin E the antioxidant known for its anti inflammatory effects. It contains linoleic acid, which works alongside vitamin A to help control the natural production of sebum. When sebum production is regulated, whiteheads and blackheads are less likely to form. The anti microbial action of this oil calms and soothes irritation, the anthocyanin and vitamin E work in harmony to address irritation and reduce redness making it great for a number of skin conditions from the dry chapped skin that accompanies eczema and the red and itchy bumpy skin commonly seen with rosacea. Lycopene is also present in this oil and is known for its strong antioxidative properties. It is an effective natural astringent that also helps to reduce the appearance of large pores and the Linoleic acid can reduce hyperpigmentation and scars.

4. Reduces age spots

It has skin lightening properties on account of the concentration of Lycopene which can make it effective at reducing age spots.

A study at the University of Santiago discovered that Rosehip successfully fades hyperpigmentation and age spots and evens out skin tone. A study conducted by Dr Fabiola Carbajal, M.D. at the University of Santiago tested Rosehip Oil on individuals with cases of facial scarring, deep wrinkles, acne scars, premature aging, hyper pigmentation, sunspots and other skin related problems.
After applying Rosehip Oil daily for four months, the individuals all showed excellent results of skin regeneration. Their wrinkles and sun spots had almost completely disappeared, and the skin had a younger and healthier look. In another study conducted by the same Doctor on women aged between 20-35 who had spend excessive amounts of time bathing in the sun after 3 months of daily application sun spots were gone, the wrinkles barely noticeable and the skin significantly smootherBoth the Super Natural Oil and the Intensive Night Cream contain organic, cold pressed Rosehip Oil.

5. Free radical fighting properties

As discussed above, Rosehip Oil has exceptional regenerative and healing properties on account of its rich vitamin profile including, Vitamin A in the form of Beta-Carotene and antioxidants which are crucial for fighting off the effects of free radical or DNA damaging molecules. It helps to protect hydrate and lock in moisture and it works to protect the skin from sun damage, reversing some sun-induced signs of aging and combatting damage caused by environmental pollutants.

 

In conclusion, it is definitely an oil to build into a nourishing skincare ritual. as a disclaimer it may (in few cases) cause mild to severe allergic reactions. In severe cases, rosehip oil can cause anaphylaxis (loss of breathing). When using rosehip oil, watch for signs of allergic reactions like skin irritation or rash. On that note all Skin Elixir products are test trailed and safety tested and approved. 

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