Derms Explain the Benefits of Rosehip Oil for Skin

While many of us consider coconut oil to be the queen of all-natural oils, there may be another contender vying for the throne. If you're unfamiliar with rosehip oil (and its many under-the-radar benefits for your skin), let us assure you that it is, in fact, as pleasant as it sounds.

For starters, this natural oil is beloved by an actual duchess. That's right—it's confirmed that Kate Middleton and her mother, Carole Middleton, use it as a part of their daily skincare routines. Kate's go-to is Trilogy's Rosehip Oil ($23). Gwyneth Paltrow and Miranda Kerr have also openly confessed their love for it, and they certainly have the glowing skin to prove it. Now that we've addressed the fact that rosehip oil is loved by royalty and A-listers alike, it's time to figure out why. To do so, we enlisted the help of dermatologists and a cosmetic chemist, for an expert take on the holy grail oil.

Keep reading to learn all about the incredible benefits of rosehip oil for skin.

What Is Rosehip Oil?

Rosehip oil—also known as rosehip seed oil—is a pressed seed oil that has been valued since ancient times 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 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 Plescia. "Although seemingly counterintuitive as an oil and sometimes thought to be not suitable 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 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 vitamin A, B vitamins, and vitamin E, rosehip oil is known for its exceptional regenerative and healing properties.
• Increases collagen production and skin elasticity: Research shows that, when ingested, after eight weeks, rosehip oil leads to a significant improvement in crow's-feet wrinkles, the skin's moisture level, and elasticity. Always talk to your doctor before starting new supplements.
• 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 the go-to for hydration, according to 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 King.

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. 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, 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."

The Best Products With Rosehip Oil

Kat Burki Rose Hip Revitalizing Serum $165.00

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This highly concentrated serum promises to help reduce the appearance of skin damage and encourage the regeneration of collagen and elastin.

Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum $195.00

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This potent serum is infused with 22 powerful botanicals and aims to fight free radicals, heal, renew, repair, and tone the skin. Rosehip is one of the main components and paired with the remaining ingredients, we can definitely see why this serum is as impressive as it is.

Pai Bioregenerate Oil $44.00

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This well-known oil from Pai is rich in omegas, formulated with rosehip, and is highly beneficial for the skin. Perfect for all skin types, the Bioregenerate Oil utilizes rosehip meant to heal, regenerate, and assist with blemishes and dullness.

Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil $72.00

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King recommends this product for those looking to firm and brighten their skin. A mix of squalane oil, vitamin C, and rosehip oil are meant to work to enhance glow and combat redness and scarring.

Herla Damask Rose Nourishing and Firming All-Day Cream $17.00

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"Rich in damask rose oil, rosehip oil, and argan oil, this creamy formulation moisturizes but absorbs quickly, ideal for combination skin," says 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."

Herbivore Phoenix Rosehip Anti-Aging Facial Oil $88.00

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Formulated specifically for dry skin, this product works to combat redness and dryness—as a bonus, it's ideal for those who battle acne. "[Rosehip oil] is rich in polyunsaturated fats, which means it can effectively be used even on acne-prone skin," says Zeichner.

Naked Poppy Revitalize Organic Facial Oil $48.00

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Zeichner recommends Naked Poppy's organic facial oil, which includes high levels 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," he says.