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We're all in search of skin so glowy that we look like a walking Instagram filter, right? So you've probably seen rosehip oil pop up in your search for skincare products that will deliver those results. But are all the promises of clear, smooth, rejuvenated skin reality, or too good to be true? We asked dermatologists and estheticians what to know about rosehip oil and whether it deserves a place in your skincare regimen.
What is rosehip oil?
Rosehip oil — also known has rosehip seed oil — is harvested from the seeds of rose bushes, and it's packed with skin-friendly nutrients. "Rosehip oil has long been trusted for its healthy skin powers, and it’s one of the more popular oils because it is non-comedogenic compared to some other oils marketed for the face and neck," explains Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut. It's packed with vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids that support a healthy, glowing, hydrated and evenly-pigmented complexion."
The hero ingredients in rosehip oil are:
Essential fatty acids: It's particularly rich in lineoleic acid, which supports the skin barrier to help regulate skin hydration and protect the deeper layers from outside irritants.
Antioxidants: Polyphenols, anthocyanins and vitamin A, C, and E have anti-inflammatory properties to help nourish, repair and improve skin appearance.
Rosehip oil benefits
Rosehip oil can help even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots, says Justine Kahn, an esthetician in California and founder of Botnia Skincare. "It's due to the overall blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, which all work together to help improve skin texture and tone," Kahn adds.
"Rosehip oil's three key vitamins A, C and E help with acne prevention and reduction by increasing skin cell turnover," says Mona Gohara, M.D., associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine.
People with sensitive skin often deal with frequent irritation or discomfort from known and unknown sources, but rosehip oil might help. "Vitamin E seems to quell irritation to make little pesky sensitivities less likely to occur," says Dr. Gohara.
"Vitamin C is the queen of all antioxidants and adds hydration to skin," Dr. Gohara says, as do fatty acids. For moisturizing, the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab likes Laura Mercier Nourishing Rose Oil, a potent infusion of 10 natural oils including rosehip. The face oil earned high marks in a Lab test for hydrating skin for six hours. "It gave me back that dewy look I hadn't seen in too long," one tester raved. "My face has a healthy glow and looks younger, with fewer wrinkles," another marveled.
Anti-inflammatory fatty acids and vitamins A and C in rosehip oil treat signs of aging, help with pigmentation, hydrate skin and repair damaged skin, and provide a strong protective antioxidant boost — "all without the oily feel of a traditional liquid oil," says Sonam Yadav, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist and co-founder of JUVERNE. Vitamin A in particular is a wrinkle eraser and skin evener. "It helps to build collagen, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles to increase skin tone," Dr. Gohara adds.
The astringent properties in rosehip oil help tighten your pores and brighten your skin, so adding some to your skincare routine is great if your cheeks need a little brightening up. "Start with a small quantity in your daily routine: patting a few drops on cleansed skin at bedtime," says Dr. Yadav.
If you’ve been struggling to even out your skin tone or have red blotches you’re desperate to quell, rosehip oil is a vitamin-packed skin cocktail that's much easier on sensitive skin than home remedies like lemon juice, so rub it on clean, damp skin in both the morning and evening. "The trio of vitamins work together to help support good skin tone," Dr. Gohara says.
Rosehip oil may help your skin regain elasticity if you’ve noticed some sagging lately. Add a few drops to your face in the morning and again just before bed to help with fresh, younger-looking skin.
The ultimate beauty ingredient trio — anti-inflammatory fatty acids and vitamins A and C — make this oil a potential solution for fading any facial scars or unsightly marks. "Together these help undo and prevent oxidative damage and help the skin re-build collagen," says Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, FAAD, clinical instructor at the University of Southern California. "It can help fade skin hyperpigmentation and potentially minimize the appearance of fine lines and even stretch marks."
Consider adding rosehip oil to your routine as a face wash. Similar to sugar and sea salt, rosehip seed oil can work as a natural exfoliator when combined with baking soda.
Potential risks of using rosehip oil:
As with anything you apply topically, there's always the chance you'll have an allergic reaction to it. It's best to do a patch test on your arm before using on your face.
If you notice any of these signs, stop using the product and see a doctor if your symptoms worsen:
Any sort of skin irritation, such as itching or redness
Rash
Hives
Blisters
Burning
In rare, but severe allergic reaction cases, you may experience difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate.
Can you use rosehip oil every day?
The answer is "most likely yes," says Dr. Mraz Robinson, though it will depend on how your unique skin responds to it and what other skincare products you use. If you have sensitive skin, you can try dabbing a little oil on your inner forearm for a few days in a row to see how it reacts before smoothing it onto your face; and, it's always a good idea to chat with your dermatologist if you're unsure.
You should, however, always apply a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 while using rosehip oil (and don't forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating). "Rosehip oil exfoliates the skin, and exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to UV damage," Dr. Mraz Robinson says.
Alyssa is a senior editor for the Hearst Health Newsroom, where she has written research-backed health content for Prevention, Good Housekeeping and Woman's Day since 2017. She has more than 13 years of reporting and editing experience and previously worked as research chief at Reader’s Digest, where she was responsible for the website's health vertical as well as editing health content for the print magazine. She has also written for Chowhound, HealthiNation.com, Huffington Post and more.
With more than a decade of experience, board-certified dermatologist Caroline Chang, M.D., is nationally recognized as a top doctor in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She is also the founder of Rhode Island Dermatology Institute, the state’s first direct care dermatology practice with the goal of providing high-quality, customized care.
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