Ever since I started professing my love for this inexpensive yet completely wonderful addition to my beauty regimen, I’ve received a bunch of questions from you guys ranging from how exactly I use it and what it is to whether or not it makes me break out (<— nope!) and more. “Rosehip oil” is also the most popular search term on the blog right now, so I figured a post dedicated to rosehip seed oil might be of interest. Let’s dive right in, shall we?
What Is Rosehip Seed Oil?
Rosehip seed oil is harvested from the seeds of rosehip bushes, predominately grown in Chile. It is full of vitamins (especially vitamin E and vitamin A), antioxidants and essential fatty acids (linoleic and linolenic acids), all of which are known rockstars in the skincare industry.
How Does It Work?
Rosehip seed oil is full of rejuvenating properties like vitamin C and lycopene and safely repairs the skin’s surface, restoring elasticity and protecting against stressors that may lead to wrinkles. It contains natural trans-retinoic acid (a derivative of vitamin A), which is commonly used in anti-aging products and praised for its ability to increase skin cell regeneration, reduce the appearance of scars and dark spots and fight acne.
Rosehip seed oil is also known for its moisturizing capabilities thanks to the high essential fatty acid content in the oil which quickly penetrates the skin without leaving it greasy for extended periods of time. It is considered gentle enough for daily use and can be blended with lotion, other oils (like coconut or grape seed oil) and moisturizers.
How Do I Use Rosehip Seed Oil?
First and foremost, I use it as a moisturizer. I’ve said goodbye to facial lotion for the most part and almost exclusively use rosehip seed oil. (One of my girlfriends still loves her daily moisturizer but adds a few drops of rosehip seed oil to it for its benefits and loves using it this way.) I apply it all over my face right when I wake up in the morning, after my post-workout shower and then after I wash my face at night. (Yup, three times a day!)
I also use it as eye makeup remover. After I wash my face, some mascara or eyeliner inevitably remains on my eyes, so I wipe this stuff around my eyelids and under my eyes to get rid of any remaining black streaks.
Rosehip seed oil also works well as body oil! Though I typically reserve it for use on my face, I’ll also occasionally rub it into dry knuckles and elbows (especially during the winter months). I’ll also rub it into my hands, lips and knees if they’re feeling particularly dry.
Why Rosehip Seed Oil is my Natural Beauty Rockstar
I began using rosehip seed oil last summer but started really using it as a pivotal part of my skincare routine beginning this past fall. Since then, I’ve seen a marked improvement in the dark spots on my skin which, for me, is HUGE. I’ve splurged on dark spot removing creams and serums and rosehip seed oil is the ONLY thing that has made a difference in reducing dark spots on my face. WOOP!
I’ve also seen an improvement in skin clarity and can honestly say the oil has in no way caused breakouts for me, which was probably my biggest concern when it came to rubbing oil all over my face. Within the past month, Ryan began using it in place of his facial moisturizer and was really concerned about breakouts caused by the oil. He hasn’t had any occur either and said he’ll definitely continue using it and loves the way it hydrates his face and sinks into his skin within minutes.
And I know this is a little weird, but I feel like it gives my skin a little “glow” when I apply it. This could be all in my head, but I love the dewy look the oil gives my skin. If I’m going to apply makeup after applying the oil, I usually rub it into my skin (I just use my fingers to apply it) and wait a few minutes for it to absorb before applying primer, etc.
Where Do I Find It?
I always purchase it on Amazon because it’s cheap and I use Amazon Prime for everrrrything. I’ve purchased both Majestic Cosmeceuticals and Lifeflo brands of rosehip oil from Amazon and love both. (I’m currently using the 4-ounce version of Majestic Cosmeseuticals 110% Pure and Natural Rosehip Oil. It has nearly 2,700 fantastic reviews on Amazon!)
Many expensive beauty products contain rosehip seed oil, but I find that purchasing pure rosehip oil is the most affordable way to go. You may also find rosehip seed oil (or other beauty products containing rosehip seed oil) at Ulta, Sephora and even Whole Foods.
For Additional Information
If you’re looking to learn more about rosehip seed oil, here are some additional resources you might want to check out that I found particularly interesting:
- Rosehip Oil: Why This Miracle Skincare Product Will Be The Next Coconut Oil
- 9 Beauty Secrets of Rose Hip Seed Oil
- Rosehip Seed Oil: Health Benefits and Uses
- Rosehip Seed Oil: A Foundation for Beauty
Question of the Day
- What are some natural beauty products/remedies you swear by? Please share some of your favorites! I’m always on the lookout for new natural beauty finds!
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I started using this a month or so ago per your recommendation and have been hooked ever since! It does an amazing job at keeping my skin moisturized without making it oily and it also helps with evening out my skin tone. Love love love it!
I loved reading this post! I personally use coconut oil and almond oil on my face and body, but have never tried rosehip seed oil, I’ll have to give it a go!
This looks like good stuff and I like the price tag, too!
I also started using this when you mentioned it a little while back. I was afraid being an oil it would make my skin break out, but it has cleared up acne on my chin and my skin is so soft. My makeup goes on so much smoother and looks great. I read somewhere where it takes a few months to see results, so I am holding out hope it’ll help with my undereye wrinkles. Thanks for turning me on to this wonderful product—I am hooked!
I’ve started using this per your recommendation and I love it! I use it with my moisturizer morning and night. I was wondering — do you refrigerate yours? I’ve seen mixed reports on keeping it in a “cool, dark” place, and I just don’t want it to go “bad”…
Thanks again for sharing it with us! 🙂
I’ve read that, too, but I don’t refrigerate mine and haven’t had any problems. I also use it daily, so it’s not just sitting there for months and months since I do seem to go through it!
Thanks for writing this!! Question: how many drops per use?
A LOT. I am kind of obsessed with it, so I just squeeze a stream of it out of the dropper and rub it all over my face. If you decided to try it, definitely try it at night first when you’re not going to put on make up or anything afterward so you can see how it absorbs into your skin.
Do you just use your fingers to apply or on a cotton swab?
Nevermind. Just saw your update. 🙂
Great post! I stopped using lotion a long time ago and I pretty much only use coconut oil (you think it would make you greasy but it totally doesn’t)! I’d love to replace my face moisturizer too!
I’m going to try this! I have been trying to make small changes in my skincare routine as well, but I have combination skin and it is tough to find something that moisturizes without being too oily. I would love to see a post about other natural swaps you tried!
Love this idea for a blog post! I’ll keep it on my radar!
I would love to see a post about other natural products as well!
Jojoba oil is great for acne prone skin.
I have pretty much replaced my facial moisturizer with coconut oil, but I may have to check this out.
Hi Julie! I was wondering, how do you apply it? Like a few drops on a cotton pad or wash cloth? I was curious how much you used each time you use it and how long a bottle usually lasts you.
I actually just apply it with clean fingertips (just updated the post to say this, so thanks for asking!) and a bottle usually lasts me around 2 months.
Oh wow this sounds great. Does it have a scent to it? I’ll have to try this!
The ones I mentioned above do not have a scent which I prefer! My sister ordered one once that did have a scent. (it smelled like roses but it was kind of intense and we definitely prefer unscented oil!)
hi – i had been looking forward to this post and just read your review twice… while it’s nice to see all that info in one place, i could get all that from google. i was really wanting to know why you PERSONALLY love it… are your wrinkles fading? is your skin “glowing”? is your skin tone more even? does it feel softer? how about scars/discoloration – are they fading? is it really like nature’s retin-a?
for readers wondering about other oils – i use organic argan oil and have been for almost 4 years now… my skin is softer, definitely more hydrated, fine lines are almost non-existent and i swear it almost looks more glowy. i have sensitive skin that breaks out easily and this never makes me break out. however i use it sparingly and if i use a tinted moisturizer during the day, i only use the argan oil once a day. i have gotten compliments on my skin which I never ever got before – my boyfriend’s sister even thought i was 4 years younger than i was “because her skin is so pretty.” my #1 beauty tip though would be always use strong sunscreen on your face… but yes i would definitely recommend argan oil-preferably josie maran’s during friends & fam at sephora.
Your questions are great ones and I just updated the post to address them! I’ve seen an improvement in my skin’s clarity and the dark spots on my face have definitely faded since I began using it regularly!
Oh i love it! I’m all about using more natural, clean products so I’m going to have to try rosehip seed oil soon!
That’s it! I’m buying some! Good Post! Question: How do you apply it? With a sponge? Special cloth? Right out of the bottle?
Hi Julie – question, how have you seen using the rosehip oil affect your face in terms of acne or blemishes? I have acne-prone, very sensitive skin, so I’m worried that my face will revolt against me if I switch from my routine of Cetaphil face wash and Cerave moisturizer. But I really want to use more natural products – so I’m hoping you can help!
I should’ve addressed this in the post to begin with — oops! Just updated the post with this info!
Thanks 🙂
I have been using for 2 months and all my girlfriends has since ordered some too! I swear it makes my face glow…
Same!! I am in love!
Fascinating! I’m adding some to my Amazon shopping cart!
Oh I can’t wait to try it!! My face has been particularly dry this winter… like painful kind of dry so I will definitely give this a try!! Thanks for sharing!
I’m curious- do you use a daily sunscreen? I’m hesitant to give up my daily moisturizer since it has SPF in it and my skin is very fair- I also want to prevent wrinkles and sunspots!
Yes! The foundation/primer I use in my makeup has SPF 30!
I’ve always wondered about oils, so thanks for this post! My skin can be a mess sometimes so I may have to give this a try!
Thanks for sharing Julie! I am in need of a new moisturizer and typically go between Dermalogica and Clinic, however, my skin has been so dry that I have been using pure Aquaphor on my face every night. That stuff is so thick and gross!! I think I might need to give this a try. It looks nice and light, but perfect for moisturizing my dry skin.
Guys, make sure the rosehip oil you buy is cold-pressed and unrefined. You’ll get more of its natural benefits that way.
But note: some people react badly to unrefined, and switching to refined may help. However, refined oil has been altered, and some benefits may be lost. I would recommend starting out with unrefined and then switching to refined if it bothers your skin.
This is interesting!! I haven’t read anything about the different versions, so I appreciate you sharing this!
Important to note that the unrefined is a bright orange amber color. I found this quite scary at first but the color fades once soaked in!! And like Amy’s comment says it is much more natural and better for your skin.
No prob, Julie! And I really appreciate the reviews/info sessions you do on various things. You cover so much without being overly wordy. Love your writing style! 🙂
I’ve been using it ever since you recommended it! My forehead isn’t a huge fan around the hairline and I may break out but I keep it light near the hairline and a little more toward the eyebrows. It’s great for your lips too especially at night. Super smooth every morning! I know some people can be put off by the smell (smells like dried flowers to me- definitely not like roses like most people think which can throw people off) but I like it. I think from what I’ve read it can go rancid if you let it sit too long but I don’t think it’ll get to that point unless you buy it and don’t use it consistently.
As far as other natural products, I swear by Andalou Naturals. Vegan, cruelty free and their CC cream is AMAZING. I use nude tint. It evens out the skin and has SPF30. Matter of fact, I forgot sunscreen while on a day trip and was in the sun for 8 hours in the fall. Everything got burnt except my face which only had 1000 Roses CC Cream on. That hooked me for life!
I’ve been using rosehip oil on my face, neck and decolletage for a couple months and I’m a big fan! One word of warning though is that it has a very distinct smell. Some might need to mix with coconut oil to dilute the scent.
I think the scent may vary depending on the brand/kind you order. My sister also ordered a scented one and really didn’t like it but found that the Majestic Cosmeceuticals rosehip oil was unscented and much more pleasant!
I’ll have to try that brand next. The one I’ve used is called VoilaVe Organics and it does have a smell. Thanks for the recommendation!
I’m sold. I’ve actually been thinking a lot lately about switching up my skincare to a more natural route. Skin is our biggest organ and everything we put on it ends up in our body! Great post, Julie! 🙂
This sounds awesome – similar uses to how I currently use Moroccan argan oil (moisturizer) and baby oil (makeup remover.) I love the idea of adding a couple of drops to traditional lotion, too!
I’ll have to check it out. Thanks for the tips!
Great post. I have never heard of this before. Need to try it out
Kisses from http://poshnessary.com ❤
I also use organic argan oil for the night, it’s magical! And yes, oils are great, but we have to use a fps during the day, sun is the #1 ennemy for wrinkles and dark spots…
Ooh I may have to try this! I’ve been using Origins Oil-Free Plantscription Anti-Aging Cream and love it but hate the price tag.
If you’re looking for all-natural cosmetics, give Pure Good Skin Food a try — I am in love with their vegan lipsticks and have heard good things about their skin care line! http://puregoodskinfood.com/ (@puregoodskinfood on Instagram)
Hi Julie,
I’ve been using this oil since you mentioned it awhile back. I use it mostly at night (just a drop or two)….but I’m noticing the oil leaves orange stains on my pillow case. Do you notice and stains on your clothing, etc?
Thanks!
Yes! I had the same issue (just commented that, actually) and couldn’t figure out any way to prevent this other than not using it. :'(
I used to use rosehip oil as a moisturizer after Brittany got me hooked! I don’t use it anymore due to a skin regimen from an esthetician, BUT I agree it was great for hydration. My pillow cases, not so much! It permanently stained my ivory pillow cases. 🙁
I love using argan oil on my face and when you previously mentioned rosehip oil I went and bought a bottle. I noticed it has a slight odor and is orangy in color. Is this just the brand I bought or do you notice this as well. I just want to make sure mine is not rancid.
I love adding rose oil to baths so I bet I’ll love this. Thanks for the tip, Julie!
Hey Julie! Love your blog. I also love rosehip seed oil, but I was told to only use it as a night moisturizer because of the high amounts of vitamin a naturally found in the oil. Vitamin A is the natures version of retinol, which is effective because it makes skin cells die rapidly, making way for new cell growth underneath. This makes you extremely susceptible to sun damage when vitamin a/retinol is on your face. My dermatologist recommended jojoba oil as a morning moisturizer in lieu of rosehip seed oil. Jojoba oil also has TONS of benefits (google them!!!!) too! Just an FYI, as (i’m sure you know) sun damage causes wrinkles and dark spots which is why we use rosehip oil in the first place! 🙂
I’m glad I read your comment. I may try the oil but will ONLY use at night. Recent info about the dangers of retinol have me paying attention to how using these products might increase my chances for skin cancer. If I have to choose, I choose wrinkles over skin cancer 🙁
This is info from EWG:
Data from an FDA study indicate that retinoid ingredients may speed the development of skin tumors and lesions on sun-exposed skin.
I’ve had this on my radar since you mentioned it in a previous post. Today might be the day I pull the trigger!
I recently started using oil cleansers and love them, but this sounds even better! Thanks for the suggestion 🙂
I purchased the Lifeflo one when you mentioned it a while back. I LOVED how it moisturized my face! I used it every morning and night and felt amazing… until a few weeks later I noticed I had awful clogged pores! I never had an issue in my life. I went to get a facial to help and the esthetician said that not all rosehip seed oil is meant for your face. So I ended up buying a more expensive one from Sephora that is meant for your face and it has been amazing. Everyone’s skin is different, so beware that this oil may be too strong for some!
I’ve actually had this sitting in my shopping cart “saved for later” on amazon prime! You may have convinced me to finally pull that trigger!
I’ve been looking to swap for more natural products too. Thanks for sharing!!
I love using Rose Hip Oil as well and just like you have noticed a difference in my skin! I also use a great product from a company called Living Libations and I use the Seabuckthorn Oil, both as a moisturizer and makeup remover. Oils have literally changed my face game and I’m so happy I have it a try!
Here is the link to their website should you be interested in checking them out 🙂
http://www.livinglibations.com/default/best-skin-ever-seabuckthorn
So informative, thank you! I’m also trying to go more natural with my beauty routine so I’ll have to try this next. It’s so so so dry here in freezing Chicago in the winter that I’ve been using straight-up coconut oil as body lotion and eye make-up remover and sometimes a cleanser. Loving it!
I ordered some after reading your reviews and I’m so sad that it made my face break out, especially on the cheeks. I use an oil-cleansing method with Fat Face products, so I was surprised that I had a reaction. As soon as I stopped using it, my skin went back to normal. I’m glad you found something that worked for you. I’m wondering if I’m the only one who has had a reaction?
I would check to make sure yours is 100% rose hip seed oil. I bought a brand off Amazon that said “pure rose hip seed oil” and gave no indication that there was anything else in it and then it came and it ended up being mixed with another carrier oil. I don’t know if it was the lower quality or the other oil, but I had to stop using it because it was clogging my pores and making me breakout. I got a new high quality 100% RHSO and it’s been baby butt smooth sailing ever since.
Totally trying this! Thanks lady!
Did you say you used this while pregnant? I am in my third trimester and would like to try it, but have been careful about using new products during pregnancy.
I’ve wondered about this too, because I know doctors advise against using any prescription retinoids during pregnancy. But I imagine this is wayyy milder, so…??
Great post Julie! I actually work at a company that makes natural beauty products, and rosehip oil is definitely one of our best sellers!! It’s amazing how effective all-natural products can be!! 🙂 http://www.foxbrim.com
Wow, as someone who was NOT aware of the rosehip oil trend, I’m happy you brought it to my attention! And I’m happy that it’s safe for people prone to breakouts, too, because I’m going to give this a try! And yay that I can get it scent-free! Thanks!
I started using this about a month ago because you kept mentioning it. I’m obsessed!!! My fiancé has even commented on my skin’s improvement. I was scared to put oil on my face at first but love the way my skin feels after it soaks in a bit. Thanks for introducing this magic to us!
I have never heard of this before but I am definitely going to try it. Especially since Ryan didn’t have any problems with breakouts due to the oil. That was my main concern 🙂
Do you refrigerate your oil? Thanks so much for this post- I have been wanting to try rosehip oil but always have trouble looking up reputable sources for health and beauty info. 🙂
Hi Julie- Did you use this while you were pregnant? Is it safe? I am 8 months pregnant.