Why You Should Add Rosehip Oil to Your Skincare Routine, According to Experts

It may sound like a dated medicinal tonic, but rosehip oil is probably something you should consider adding to your skincare repertoire. Yes, it may actually be an ancient essential for all sorts of healing needs, but it's also a beloved daily staple of royals (ahem, Kate Middleton) and celebs (cough, Gwyneth Paltrow and Miranda Kerr). That's a whole lot of clout for one oil to carry. But, if you're not so easily convinced by sheer frenzy alone (we've taught you well), let us assure you of exactly why it deserves its claim to fame.

We enlisted the help of dermatologists and a cosmetic chemist for an expert take on this holy grail oil. Keep reading to learn all about the incredible benefits of rosehip oil for the skin.

What Is Rosehip Oil?

Rosehip oil—also known as rosehip seed oil—is a pressed seed oil that has been long valued for its many healing properties, which makes it especially helpful for those with sensitive skin. "Rosehip oil is derived from the small fruit that sits beneath the rose," says dermatologist, Joshua Zeichner. "It is a popular ingredient in skincare right now for its hydrating and anti-aging benefits."

Rosehip oil has a host of benefits (more on those below) but it is first and foremost an ultra-effective emollient and moisturizer: "With high levels of essential fatty acids, especially omega-3 (linolenic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid), rosehip seed oil can effectively soften skin and improve skin barrier function," says cosmetic chemist, Marisa Plescia. "Although seemingly counterintuitive as an oil and sometimes thought to be unsuitable for oily/breakout-prone skin, rosehip seed oil can be an ideal natural oil for blemished skin." Rosehip oil’s high concentration of omega-6 fatty acids (also known as linoleic acid) may be particularly helpful for those suffering from acne. Studies have found that linoleic acid deficiency is linked to the development of acne. According to Plescia, linoleic acid also helps to treat hyperpigmentation.

Benefits of Rosehip Oil for Skin

• Regenerates and heals the skin: Because it contains high concentrations of vitamins A, B, and E, rosehip oil is known for its exceptional regenerative and healing properties.
• Increases collagen production and skin elasticity: Research shows that, when ingested for over eight weeks, rosehip oil leads to a significant improvement in crow's-feet, wrinkles, the skin's moisture level, and elasticity.
• Fights free radicals: "With high levels of vitamin C, rosehip seed oil can help with the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brighten skin, and help fight free radicals in the skin," says Plescia.
• Has dramatic skin restorative powers: A 2015 study found that the use of rosehip oil on patients post-surgery improved the overall look of their scars.
• Intensely hydrates and moisturizes the skin: Including linoleic acid, as well as various other essential fatty acids, rosehip oil is a go-to for hydration, according to Dr. Zeichner.
• Calms inflammation: Rich in vitamin E and anthocyanin—two ingredients that can calm and soothe irritation—rosehip oil can be hugely beneficial for those dealing with rosacea, eczema, and other inflammatory skin issues.
• Combats acne: "For acne-prone skin, rosehip oil can be helpful because it has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, and it has low comedogenicity," explains dermatologist, Hadley King.

Potential Side Effects of Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil has no known side effects and is generally safe for all skin types. However, a patch test should always be performed before adding any new product to your daily routine.

How to Use Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil can be applied straight onto the skin or can be used as a carrier oil for other, more potent facial oils. Dr. King recommends the Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil for those looking to firm and brighten their skin. The mix of squalane oil, vitamin C, and rosehip oil is meant to work to enhance glow and combat redness and scarring. Herla's Damask Rose Nourishing and Firming All-Day Cream ($56) is another favorite. "Rich in damask rose oil, rosehip oil, and argan oil, this creamy formulation moisturizes but absorbs quickly, ideal for combination skin," says Dr. King. "These oils help balance the skin's oil production, with low risk for comedogenicity. Hyaluronic acid hydrates the skin, and extracts from ginkgo Biloba, grapes, rooibos plant, and milk thistle minimize oxidative stress."

Although it's formulated into many skincare products, rosehip oil can most often be found in its pure form, to be applied directly onto the skin. This oil should be packaged in a dark, amber-colored bottle to protect it from UV rays– which might diminish the potency of the product if exposed– and stored in a cool, dark place.

Rosehip oil can be used up to twice a day, morning and evening. The most popular way to use this oil is by applying it directly to the skin or adding it to your favorite moisturizer. "Rosehip oil can be found in all types of skincare products, from lotions to serums," says Plescia. "But a facial oil, either blended or pure, is the ideal way to experience the potency and the benefits of the oil."

Final Takeaway

As it turns out, rosehip oil is every bit deserving of its distinction and prominence in skincare. If its hydrating, healing, and anti-aging benefits weren't enough, its ability to combat redness and dryness without irritating acne is worthy of fanfare. "[Rosehip oil] is rich in polyunsaturated fats, which means it can effectively be used even on acne-prone skin," says Dr. Zeichner, who highlights the oil's concentration of linoleic acid, "which is known to be deficient in the natural oil of people with acne. Replacing it may help reduce inflammation and activity of the oil gland itself."