Rosehip Seed Oil Recipes
Rosehip seed oil is popular in skincare due to recent advances and insights into the bioactive properties and applications of Rosa canina L. and its by–products confirming its benefits across all skin types. These rosehip seed oil recipes will help you incorporate this oil on its own, or you can add a few drops to another carrier oil or your favorite moisturizer. It should be safe to apply a few drops of rosehip seed oil up to twice per day, although this is dependent on your skin type and use of other skincare products.
Rosehip seed oil is mechanically extracted from the crushed seeds of wild rose bush Rosa rubiginosa using a cold–pressing method. Cold press is a process that helps maintain the nutritional value of the oil. Rosehip seed oil can also be extracted from Rosa canina.
The Difference Between Rose Essential Oil and Rosehip Seed Oil
Rose essential oil is extracted from the petals of various species of rose. It’s rich in essential oils and is renowned for its fragrant aroma. This oil is primarily used for its scent and is believed to have therapeutic properties.
In contrast, rosehip seed oil is distilled from the seeds and fruits of the rose plant, typically the Rosa canina or Rosa rubiginosa species. Rosehip seed oil is considered a carrier oil rather than an essential oil. Unlike rose essential oil, rosehip seed oil is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. It is widely used for hydrating dry skin, fading scars and fine lines, and promoting skin regeneration.
The Health and Beauty Benefits of Rosehip Seed Oil
A 2024 review of studies unveiled rosehip seed oil is a perfect candidate for the development of skincare formulations that can be effectively used in the treatment of different skin disorders (i.e., scarring, anti–aging, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, melasma, and atopic dermatitis). Read about the health and beauty benefits of rosehip seed oil to learn more.
While rosehip products are mostly found in oil form, rosehips may also be used in creams, powders, and teas. Apply any toners, essences and serums first. Rosehip seed oil should go before any cream moisturizer or sunscreen.
Equipment Prep
Sanitize your utensils by boiling them in distilled water and allowing to dry. This includes mixing containers, whisks, and any spoons or spatulas that may come in contact with your mask. Your products must be as free of germs, bacteria, and microbes as possible. If you’re a beginner and unsure about how to best avoid bacterial and mold growth in your homemade self care products, check out our quick guide to cosmetic preservatives.
If you’ve never made lotion before, it’s surprisingly easy. All you have to do is combine water, oils, and additives. Not ready to jump into lotion making quite yet? Body butter is a great option—learn the difference between lotion, cream and body butter here.
Rosehip and Lavender Facial Mask
This rosehip and lavender facial mask moisturizes the skin with rosehip seed oil, jojoba oil, and lavender extract. A touch of French pink clay (Montmorillonite) adds a soft color, and the lavender essential oil and green tea extract create a calming scent.
Yield: 4 ounces
Skill Level: Intermediate
Time: 1 hour
Oil Phase
- 0.36 oz. (10 g) rosehip seed oil
- 0.36 oz. (10 g) Jojoba oil
- 0.55 oz. (16 g) beeswax
Water Phase
- 0.64 oz. (18 g) distilled water
- 0.16 oz. (4.5 g) vegetable glycerin
- 0.04 oz. (1 g) sea salt (or preservative of choice, optional)
Cooling Phase
- 2.56 oz. (73 g) lavender extract (hydrosol)
- 0.04 oz. (1 g) green tea extract (hydrosol)
- 0.1 oz. (3 g) vitamin E
- ¼ tsp. French pink clay (Montmorillonite)
- One 4 oz. glass jar with tight–fitting lid
Directions
- In a large container, dissolve sea salt into the distilled water, add lavender extract and vegetable glycerin. Whisk to mix well.
- In a separate heat–safe container, combine beeswax, rosehip seed and Jojoba oils. Heat in a double boiler or in the microwave using on 30–60 second bursts until the beeswax is melted and the mixture is at least 120–130° F.
- When the oil phase and water phase are ready, tap the bottom of the containers to release bubbles. Pour the oil mix into the water mixture and begin whisking. Blend the mixture for 60–90 seconds, making sure the oil and water phases are fully emulsified. Scrape the bowl to make sure you got every bit into the water.
- Add ¼ teaspoon of French pink clay. Continue whisking until the temperature drops to about 90–100° F. Add lavender essential oil and green tea extract. Whisk for another 60–90 seconds to fully combine.
Pour the mask into the jar. If it’s too thick to pour, place it in the microwave and gently reheat in 10 second bursts. Allow the jar to sit with the lid off for several hours to prevent condensation. Screw on the lid.
Apply a thick layer to clean skin. Allow to sit for 10–20 minutes. Gently rinse off with tepid water. Air dry skin.
Rosehip Seed Oil Anti–Wrinkle Cream
This cream can help to hydrate and smooth out the skin, as well as prevent wrinkles and fine lines on the face.
Yield: 4 ounces
Skill Level: Intermediate
Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 5 ml of rosehip seed oil
- 20 ml of coconut oil
- 30 ml of beeswax
- 3 g of vitamin E
- 1 glass jar with a lid
Directions
- Place the coconut oil and the beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat until they melt and whisk.
- Once combined, remove from heat and cool.
- Add the rosehip seed oil and vitamin E and whisk to combine.
Store in the refrigerator. To make this cream more liquid, you can add 30 ml of coconut oil and just 20 ml of beeswax. If you want the cream to be thicker, add 40 ml of beeswax and just 10–15 ml of coconut oil. This cream can be applied several times per day. It is particularly effective when applied to a clean face at night, before going to bed.
Homemade Rosehip Seed Oil
It is possible to prepare rosehip seed oil at home to nurture and add brightness to your skin.
Yield: 8 ounces
Skill Level: Beginner
Time: 20 days
Ingredients
- 30–40 g of rosehips
- Almond oil
- A glass jar or container with a lid
- A glass dropper bottle
Directions
- Cut the seeds in half and place them in the jar.
- Pour the almond oil over them, enough to fully cover the seeds.
- Close the jar and allow the seeds to soak in the oil for about 20 days.
- After this time has passed, strain the infusion and transfer the oil to a dropper bottle.
Keep away from heat and direct light.
Precautions
Rosehip seed oil is available as a 100% pure oil in some health food stores and online. Rosehip seed oil can be applied topically. When buying rosehip seed oil, be sure to purchase a high–quality, 100 percent organic, pure–grade product that’s made by a trustworthy and reputable company. Rosehip seed oil can be applied directly to your skin when used in its pure form or used as a carrier oil for other facial oils.
If you buy unrefined or raw rosehip seed oil, be careful when applying it as these can be rich in color. And that color can stain your hands, body and clothes. If you’d like to avoid this, try an organic, cold–pressed option. Experts at the University of Minnesota recommend that you check the label for the Latin name of the plant and the country of origin when purchasing rosehip seed oil. When selecting rosehip seed oil, choose a product from a known manufacturer to be sure the product is safe from pesticides.
In any form, rosehip seed oil should never be used on broken or damaged skin. Do not apply directly to open wounds. Never use rosehip seed oil in eyes or in mucous membranes. When applying rosehip seed oil topically (on your skin), always perform a 24–hour skin patch test first using 1–2 drops, read how for further details.
Rosehip seed oil can have a long shelf life if stored properly in tightly–sealed dark glass bottle. Store in a cool and dry place. Prevent exposure to extreme heat and cold temperatures. Most brands need refrigeration to prevent spoilage. Keep out of reach of children.
Drug Interactions
If you’re on blood–clotting medication or have upcoming surgery, it’s best to avoid using rosehip seed oil at least 14 days before the procedure.
Contraindications
Excessive use of rosehip seed oil may also cause side effects in some individuals, including complications of pregnancy, gastrointestinal distress, bleeding problems, inflammation, gas, headaches and diarrhea. Although uncommon, rosehip seed oil may cause an allergic reaction in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you experience symptoms like rash, hives or swelling after using rosehip seed oil, discontinue use immediately.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before using rosehip seed oil if you’re taking medications or have preexisting health conditions. In some instances, vitamin C can be harmful. For conditions such as diabetes (vitamin C may impact blood sugar control), kidney stones (in large amounts, vitamin C may increase the risk of kidney stones), anemia (vitamin C may impact iron absorption), do not use rosehip seed oil without your doctor’s approval:
individuals with plant or seed allergies to roses, rosehip, or similar plants should avoid or exercise extreme caution when using rosehip seed oil. Side effects of topical rosehip seed oil use are rare, though an allergic reaction is possible.
Allergic reaction symptoms may include rash or hives, red itchy skin, scratchy throat, difficulty breathing, rapid heartrate, dizziness, congestion, itchy watery eyes, wheezing, chest discomfort, nausea, vomiting and anaphylaxis. In case of anaphylaxis, seek immediate medical attention if you have trouble breathing, wheezing, swollen mouth, throat, or face, rapid heartbeat or stomach pain.
Use essential oils with extreme caution on children. Some brands clearly label their essential oils “KidSafe” on the bottle if it can be used on children ages 2–10.
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Sources:
Rosehip and Lavender Face Mask Project
https://www.brambleberry.com/articles-and-projects/projects/skincare/rosehip-and-lavender-face-mask-project/PS000326.html
by TaraLee SkinCare