Rosa Canina (Rose Hip) Fruit Oil
Rosehip oil has emerged as a powerful natural ingredient in skincare, particularly valued for its unique combination of essential fatty acids and antioxidants [1]. Research shows it contains an optimal balance of linoleic acid (51-54%), alpha-linolenic acid (19-20%), and oleic acid (19-20%), making it especially beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types [2]. These fatty acids are crucial for maintaining skin barrier function and reducing inflammation, which is particularly relevant if you have skin types 1 or 2 (dry and dry-sensitive skin).
One of the most compelling aspects of rosehip oil is its clinically proven ability to improve scar appearance. In a significant study, patients using rosehip oil on post-surgical scars showed marked improvements in erythema (redness), dyschromia (uneven coloring), and tissue atrophy compared to untreated controls [3]. This makes it particularly valuable for anyone dealing with scarring or uneven skin texture. For those with balanced skin (type 3), rosehip oil can serve as an excellent preventive treatment against signs of aging, thanks to its high antioxidant content, including vitamin E and carotenoids [4].
However, if you have oily or oily-sensitive skin (types 4 and 5), you should approach rosehip oil with caution. While its anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial, higher concentrations may potentially aggravate acne or oily skin conditions [5]. For these skin types, it's recommended to use products with lower concentrations (0.5-5%) of rosehip oil or to use it as part of a balanced formulation. Recent research has also revealed that rosehip oil influences the transition of macrophages from inflammatory to regenerative states, explaining its therapeutic effects on wound healing and skin regeneration [6].
References
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Chrubasik C, Roufogalis BD, Müller-Ladner U, Chrubasik S. A systematic review on the Rosa canina effect and efficacy profiles. Phytother Res. 2008;22:725-733. doi:10.1002/ptr.2400
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Ilyasoğlu H. Characterization of rosehip (Rosa canina L.) seed and seed oil. Int J Food Prop. 2014;17:1591-1598. doi:10.1080/10942912.2013.777075
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Valerón-Almazán P, Gómez-Duaso AJ, Santana-Molina N, García-Bello MA, Carretero G. Evolution of post-surgical scars treated with pure rosehip seed oil. J Cosmet Dermatol Sci Appl. 2015;5:161-167. doi:10.4236/jcdsa.2015.52019
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Mármol I, Sánchez-de-Diego C, Jiménez-Moreno N, Ancín-Azpilicueta C, Rodríguez-Yoldi MJ. Therapeutic applications of rose hips from different Rosa species. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;18(6):1137. doi:10.3390/ijms18061137
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Belkhelladi M, Bougrine A. Rosehip extract and wound healing: A review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024;23:62-67. doi:10.1111/jocd.15971
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Lei Z, Cao Z, Yang Z, Ao M, Jin W, Yu L. Rosehip oil promotes excisional wound healing by accelerating the phenotypic transition of macrophages. Planta Med. 2019;85:563-569. doi:10.1055/a-0725-8456