All the Benefits of Rosehip Oil for Skin and Hair

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Celebrated for its role in softening stretch marks, rosehip oil offers far more than body care alone. Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidant vitamins, it supports skin elasticity and overall resilience—especially when used consistently. A few drops can smooth the look of the complexion, add shine to hair, and condition dry cuticles, delivering targeted nourishment from head to toe.

What is rosehip oil?

Rosehip oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of Rosa mosqueta—also known as Rosa muschata or Rosa rubiginosa—a wild species native to Chile and Argentina. Naturally amber in tone, it’s rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, including oleic and linolenic acids, as well as vitamins E, A, and K, squalene, flavonoids, and vitamin C. This composition gives the oil both restorative and antioxidant functions, supporting skin renewal, helping to neutralize free radicals, and improving the appearance of aging over time.

Properties of rosehip oil

  • Promotes skin elasticity, including in cases of stretch marks
  • Soothes redness and irritation
  • Improves hydration and leaves skin silky
  • Calms skin after sun exposure
  • Minimizes the appearance of wrinkles
  • Smooths the complexion
  • Supports cell regeneration

Benefits of rosehip oil for the face

Rosehip oil is one of those rare ingredients that plays well with nearly every skin type. Packed with antioxidants, it helps defend against free radicals while supporting the renewal processes that keep fine lines looking softer over time. Its natural emollients seals in moisture—especially when paired with other plant oils like grapeseed or almond—leaving skin comfortable and supple rather than greasy. One caveat: keep it away from the immediate eye area, where even gentle oils can cause irritation.

Benefits of rosehip oil for the body

Regular application helps improve elasticity and supports skin regeneration, which can soften the appearance of stretch marks and aid recovery from sun exposure or minor skin stress. For this reason, it is often used during periods of change such as pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or growth. “Rosehip fruits and seed oils have the potential to slow down the aging process by promoting cell turnover and antioxidant renewal,” notes a recent scientific review that looked at the oil’s use in dermatological products.

For nails and hair

On the hair, rosehip oil can be applied to the ends, preferably diluted with a carrier oil like argon oil, to add shine and help control frizz. On nails and cuticles, it works as a moisturizing treatment that nourishes the nail bed and helps prevent cuticle lifting. Some evidence suggests it may even promote hair growth.

How to use rosehip oil

Rosehip oil can be applied pure to clean, dry skin on both the face and body using a few drops massaged in gently. It can also be mixed into a face or body cream to enhance its nourishing effect.

When diluted with other plant oils, it works well as a full-body massage oil, particularly on areas prone to stretch marks.

For hair, it can be used as an overnight treatment or a pre-shampoo mask. On curls, a small diluted amount can be misted lightly to revive texture and reduce frizz.

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