Rosehip Seed Oil
Cold-pressed from the seeds of Rosa canina, rosehip oil is rich in linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, and trans-retinoic acid (a natural form of tretinoin). This makes it one of the few plant oils with genuine anti-aging activity — the natural tretinoin content promotes cell turnover and collagen synthesis. It is also high in antioxidants and is used for scars, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines.
Concentration & Usage
Apply 2-4 drops in the evening after water-based serums. Can be used morning (under sunscreen) but the natural retinoid content makes PM use preferred. Cold-pressed, unrefined oil is orange-red. Goes rancid relatively quickly — store in fridge and use within 3-6 months.
Application
Topical (pure oil). Apply 2-4 drops as last step of PM routine. Cold-pressed, unrefined.
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99%+ purity · third-party lab tested
Mechanism of Action
Natural trans-retinoic acid content (0.01-0.04%) binds RAR receptors in keratinocytes and fibroblasts, promoting cell turnover, collagen type I synthesis, and keratinocyte differentiation at gentle level without retinization. Linoleic acid (44%) supports barrier repair through ceramide synthesis, balances sebum composition (acne-prone skin often deficient). Alpha-linolenic acid (33%) converts to anti-inflammatory metabolites, supports barrier function. Beta-carotene and lycopene provide antioxidant protection and mild photoprotection. Unique combination among plant oils: natural retinoid plus essential fatty acids plus antioxidants — no other oil provides all three. Contains tocopherols. Quickly absorbed. Clinical use: scars, hyperpigmentation, fine lines — subtle but measurable anti-aging effects compared to inert oils.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient. Available OTC worldwide.
Risks & Safety
Common
May cause breakouts in oily/acne-prone skin. Goes rancid quickly if not stored properly.
Serious
None.
Rare
Allergic reaction (rose family).
Compare Rosehip Seed Oil With
Research Papers
5Published: March 20, 2020
AI Summary
This study was intended to assess the efficacy and safety of a rosehip seed oil (RHO) extract in the prevention and treatment of skin lesions in the hands of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) caused by finger prick blood glucose monitoring.
Published: December 30, 2023
AI Summary
Histological analysis revealed significant increases in hair follicle density, hair bulb size, and skin thickness. These findings suggest that RHSO stimulates hair growth and may show promise as a preventive and/or therapeutic agent for hair loss.
Published: September 30, 2025
AI Summary
This group also demonstrated the highest vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) expression levels, greater total antioxidant capacity, and the most effective oxidative stress reduction.
Published: June 3, 2008
AI Summary
Rose hip, rose hip and seed and rose hip seed, all were negatively monographed by the German Commission E due to insufficient evidence of effects and effectiveness. For various preparations of rose hip and rose hip and seed, antioxidative and antiinflammatory effects have been demonstrated.
Published: September 19, 2022
AI Summary
The results showed that the PO did not reduce cell viability at concentrations ranging from 31 to 500 μg/ml. The data indicate that PO has no cytogenotoxic effects and suggest that it activated the PI3/AKT/mTOR cascade of cell growth and proliferation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rosehip Seed Oil used for?
Cold-pressed from the seeds of Rosa canina, rosehip oil is rich in linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, and trans-retinoic acid (a natural form of tretinoin). This makes it one of the few plant oils with genuine anti-aging activity — the natural tretinoin content promotes cell turnover and collagen synthesis. It is also high in antioxidants and is used for scars, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines.
What are the side effects of Rosehip Seed Oil?
Common: May cause breakouts in oily/acne-prone skin. Goes rancid quickly if not stored properly. Serious: None. Rare: Allergic reaction (rose family).
How is Rosehip Seed Oil administered?
Rosehip Seed Oil is administered via topical (pure oil). apply 2-4 drops as last step of pm routine. cold-pressed, unrefined..
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