Rosa Canina Fruit Oil

Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, also popularly known as rosehip oil, is a highly coveted ingredient derived from the seeds within the fruits or 'hips' of the Rosa canina plant, a type of rose native to Europe, northwest Africa, and western Asia.

Rosa canina fruit oil is the same ingredient as Rosa canina seed oil - the oil that is extracted from the little hard seeds inside of the red, fleshy rosehip.

It contains mainly linoleic and linolenic acid (and other polyunsaturated fatty acids), as well as a very high amount of antioxidant carotenoids (provitamin A), which give the oil its characteristic light orange color.

Rosehip oil has enjoyed a long, storied history in skincare. It can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Mayans, and Native Americans, who revered its healing and beautifying properties. Used to combat skin disorders and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion, this oil was an invaluable part of their beauty rituals.

In ancient Persia (modern-day Iran), the oil was used as a natural remedy for various health ailments including digestive disorders, menstrual cramps, and joint pains.

In traditional Chinese medicine, Rosa Canina, also known as Jin Ying Zi, has been used for thousands of years. It's believed to help replenish Qi (energy) and consolidate Jing (essence), typically used to treat conditions such as urinary incontinence, diarrhea, and excessive sweating.

The rosehips were used by the ancient Greeks and Romans who recognized their potential health benefits and used them to fortify their immunity and fend off various ailments. Simultaneously, the oil extracted from the seeds within these rosehips was utilized in their skincare routines.

Rosa Canina Fruit Oil is prized in the skincare industry for its impressive array of benefits. It primarily functions as a potent moisturizer, thanks to its occlusive nature, which helps lock in moisture, preventing skin dryness and dehydration.

It is very suitable for dry, eczematous, or acne-prone skin types, and can be used to help treat various other skin conditions such as scars or psoriasis.

Beyond its moisturizing benefits, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil is a superior emollient.

Rosehip seed oil feels light and dry on the skin and can give the skin a soft glow. It can be used by itself or in creams and lotions.

Here are some notable benefits of Rosa Canina Fruit Oil for the skin:

1. Moisturizing (occlusive): As mentioned earlier, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil is an excellent occlusive, forming a protective barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss. This function makes it a fantastic ally for dry skin types and a key ingredient in hydrating skincare formulations.

2. Emollient: Rosa Canina Fruit Oil works as an effective emollient, which essentially means it helps soften and smooth the skin. This action is due to the oil's fatty acid content, notably omega-3 and omega-6, that promote a healthy skin barrier, making it a go-to ingredient in many skincare products.

3. Skin Barrier Support: Essential fatty acids in Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, such as linoleic and linolenic acids, may strengthen the skin's barrier function, which helps protect the skin from environmental stressors.

4. Potential Antioxidant: Rosa Canina Fruit Oil is rich in carotenoids, flavonoids, and trans-retinoic acid, all of which are potent antioxidants. These compounds help neutralize harmful free radicals in the skin, protecting it from oxidative stress that can lead to premature aging and other skin damage.

Yes, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil is generally considered safe for most skin types. It's worth noting that it should be stored in a cool, dark place as it can oxidize and lose its effectiveness when exposed to light or heat.

On a more global note, the harvesting and production of Rosa Canina Fruit Oil are often done in a sustainable manner. The Rosa canina plant is robust and widespread, making the impact of its cultivation minimal on the environment.