Rosehip oil is an oil that is extracted from wild rosehip seeds. It is rich in fatty acids, like linolenic acid, as well as vitamin A and C. This oil contains a regenerative effect that helps to maintain the skin’s integrity, and can be used to treat stretch marks, keloids, bruises, scars, wrinkles and smile lines.
Rosehip oil is also able to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in the innermost layers of the skin, which can contribute to skin firmness. It also have an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect, which can speed-up wound healing. It is a natural hair-strengthening remedy and promotes hydration deep within the follicle.
This oil can be purchased at pharmacies, natural health stores and beauty stores. Lotions are often found in concentrations between 2% to 10%, while pure oil can be found in concentrations of 100%.
Health benefits
Rosehip oil has several health benefits and can be used for the treatment of:
1. Dry and rough skin
Rosehip oil is especially indicated for the treatment of very dry and rough skin. It is naturally rich in oleic acid, linoleic acid, and vitamin A, which have regenerating and moisturizing effects on the skin.
2. Skin blemishes
Rosehip oil helps to reduce hyperpigmentation on the skin. It can be used to reduce skin blemishes caused by acne, pimples or scars, for example.
3. Burns
Rosehip oil has healing, regenerating and anti-inflammatory properties due to the fatty acids naturally found in its composition. It can help to speed-up recovery of first-degree burns.
4. Post-op wounds
Due to the fatty acids and vitamins A and C in its composition, rosehip oil can help to heal the skin. It can stimulate collagen and trigger the growth of new skin cells, which can help to speed-up the post-op healing process.
5. Old scars
Rosehip oil can also help to fade old scars or stretch marks, as it reduces skin pigmentation and minimizes the appearance of old scars and fine lines.
6. Diaper rash
Rosehip oil contains regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce skin irritation and redness. It can be used as a protective barrier, and can be used to prevent or treat diaper rashes.
7. Psoriasis
Rosehip oil can be used to treat psoriasis, as it has a deep moisturizing effect on the skin and stimulates cell regeneration. It can be used daily for psoriasis or other skin conditions.
8. Wrinkles and expression lines
Rosehip oil is rich in vitamin C, which is a natural antioxidant that stimulates the production of collagen and elastin in the skin. This can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and expression lines.
This oil also has moisturizing properties, which can prevent the dry skin that contributes to wrinkles and expression lines.
9. Premature skin aging
Rosehip oil can also help to prevent premature skin aging, as the vitamin C present in the oil has an antioxidant effect. This can prevent skin cell damage caused by free radicals.
10. Stretch marks during pregnancy
Rosehip oil can also be used during pregnancy to prevent the development of stretch marks. However, you should speak to a dermatologist before starting rose hip oil for the first time during pregnancy.
11. Dry hair
Rosehip oil can be used on dry and brittle hair to rebuild strands, moisturize your hair, promote shine and control frizz. It can be added to your hair care routine.
How to use
Rosehip oil can be used on the skin and on the hair in the following ways:
On the face
To use rosehip oil on your face, apply a few drops to your face and massage gently into the skin, 1 to 2 times a day.
Another way to use rosehip oil is as an anti-wrinkle cream. This cream can help to hydrate and smooth out the skin, as well as prevent wrinkles and smile lines on the face.
Ingredients
- 5 ml os rosehip essential oil
- 20 ml of coconut oil
- 30 ml of beeswax
- 1 ampule of vitamin E
- A glass jar with a lid
Directions
Place the coconut oil and the beeswax in a small pot, and place this pot in a larger pot with water. Place these over heat and mix the ingredients until they melt and mix together. Once combined, add the rosehip and vitamin E ampule, mix and allow to cool. Store in the refrigerator.
This cream can be applied several times per day. It is particularly effective when applied to the face at night, before going to bed.
To make this cream more liquid, you can add 30 ml of coconut oil and just 20 ml of beeswax. If you want the cream to be thicker, add 40 ml of beeswax and just 10 to 15 ml of coconut oil.
On the body
To use rosehip oil on the skin, you should apply drops directly on the skin and massage it in, using light, circular motions for 2 to 3 minutes to ensure full absorption. The oil can be applied once or twice a day, mainly in drier areas of the skin, or in areas with scars, stretchmarks or wrinkles.
To prevent stretchmarks, it can be applied at least twice a day, or as directed by a dermatologist.
On the hair
Rosehip oil can be used on the entire hair and scalp. Apply some drops to the head and massage it into the scalp in circular movements for 5 minutes, then apply along the rest of the hair. You can complete these process once per week.
You can also prepare a moisturizing hair mask at home.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 drops of rosehip oil;
- Moisturizing hair cream.
Directions
Add the drops of rosehip oil to a small dollop of moisturizing hair cream and apply to your damp hair for 15 to 20 minutes. Then rinse with your usual shampoo and conditioner.
You can use the oil purchased at a pharmacy or health food store, or one prepared at home.
Homemade rosehip oil
It is possible to prepare rosehip oil at home to nurture and add brightness to your skin. For this, you will need:
Ingredients
- 30 to 40 g of rosehip oil
- Almond oil
- A glass jar or container with a lid
- A dropper
Directions
First, cut the seeds in half and place them in the jar. Then pour the almond oil over them, enough to fully cover the seeds. Close the jar and allow the seeds to soak in the oil for about 20 days. After this time has passed, you can strain the infusion and transfer the oil to a dropper. Be sure to keep out of the heat and out of direct light.
Contraindications
Up to now, there is no evidence available about applying rosehip oil to open wounds. Therefore, you should only apply it to intact skin.