Rose hips are the small, round fruits of the rose plant. They serve a botanical purpose in that they contain the tiny seeds of rose plants, and consequently help the plants to reproduce. In addition, rose hips are highly nutritious, and especially rich in vitamin C, making them a valued component of many supplements, teas and other healthful foods and drinks. The oil of rose hips can also play a significant role in a beneficial skin care regimen.
Rose Hip Oil and Skin Care
The part of rose hips that is most frequently utilized in skin care is the oil made from their pressed seeds. Rose hip oil contains retinol, or vitamin A, and vitamin C. It is also rich in nourishing and hydrating essential fatty acids, including omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids.
Benefits of Rose Hip Oil to the Skin
Rose hip oil has numerous benefits to the skin. Because of its retinol content, it can help to reduce and prevent wrinkles, to smooth out uneven skin tones and to fade and remove scars from injuries and acne. Rose hip oil is highly nourishing to dry, mature and aging skin. It can alleviate dermatitis and eczema, and relieve skin burns, including sunburns. With its nourishing omega fatty acids, rose hip oil can also rehydrate excessively dry skin. Due to its vitamin C content, rose hip oil has antioxidant properties, and can work to repair and rejuvenate skin cells.
Application of Rose Hip Oil to the Skin
The best way to apply rose hip oil to the skin is with clean hands and/or fingertips. To avoid a greasy appearance and feel, apply only a small amount of rose hip oil to the skin, then add more if it is readily absorbed. Gently massage the rose hip oil into the skin in a circular motion.
Skin Care Products Made with Rose Hips
In addition to plain rose hip oil, there many other types of skin care products that contain rose hip oil among their other ingredients. These include facial creams, body lotions, facial serums, sunscreens, stretch mark reducing creams, scar reducing creams and eye creams. These products are available at health food stores and natural beauty product retailers, as well as in some supermarkets and through online vendors.
Tips for Selecting Rose Hip Skin Care Products
Whether you plan to use plain rose hip oil or a product that contains it along with other ingredients, there are certain tips to keep in mind. Look for a rose hip skin care product that lists rose hip oil high up on the list of ingredients; this indicates that a relatively large quantity of it is present in the product. Seek out a rose hip skin care products that is organic; this means that all of the ingredients in the product, including rose hips, were grown or produced without the use of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and other synthetic chemicals, which can be harmful to the skin. Choose a rose hip skin care product that is free of synthetic preservatives like parabens, which studies have indicated are connected to a variety of physical ailments, including cancer.
References
- "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances"; Julie Gabriel, 2008
- "Pure Skin: Organic Beauty Basics"; Barbara Close, 2005
- Care To Make a Difference: Rose Hip Oil-Wonders for the Skin
- Biocutis: Rose Hip Oil Benefits
- Uncle Harry's: Rose Hip Oil for Skin Rejuvenation
Member Comments