Rosehip Oil Benefits for Skin: Everything You Need to Know
If you could only add one oil to your skincare routine, rosehip oil would be a very strong contender. It's one of the most researched, most celebrated plant oils in natural skincare — and for good reason. Packed with vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids, the rosehip oil benefits for skin are hard to ignore. But what exactly does it do, who is it best for, and how should you use it? Let's break it all down.
What is rosehip oil?
Rosehip oil — sometimes called rosehip seed oil — is a cold-pressed oil extracted from the seeds of wild rose bushes, primarily Rosa canina. It's been used for centuries in traditional medicine and skincare, but it's gained serious mainstream attention over the past decade as one of the most effective natural oils for skin repair, hydration and anti-ageing.
Unlike rose essential oil, which is distilled from rose petals and used primarily for fragrance, rosehip oil comes from the seeds and is rich in nutrients that actively benefit the skin. It has a lightweight, dry texture that absorbs quickly — making it suitable for daily use without leaving a heavy or greasy finish.
Rosehip oil benefits for skin
So what makes rosehip oil so effective? It comes down to its unique nutritional profile. Here are the specific rosehip oil benefits for skin that set it apart from other face oils:
Rich in vitamin A (retinol). Rosehip oil is one of the few plant oils that naturally contains tretinoin — a form of vitamin A. Vitamin A accelerates cell turnover, helping to shed dead skin cells faster and reveal fresher, brighter skin underneath. This makes rosehip oil particularly effective for fading dark marks, evening out skin tone and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
High in vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and pollution. It also plays a crucial role in collagen production, which keeps skin firm and plump. The vitamin C in rosehip oil supports a brighter, more even complexion over time.
Packed with essential fatty acids. Rosehip oil is rich in omega-3 (linolenic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid) fatty acids. These essential fats strengthen the skin's moisture barrier, lock in hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss. A strong moisture barrier means fewer breakouts, less sensitivity and skin that stays hydrated for longer.
Anti-inflammatory properties. The combination of fatty acids and antioxidants gives rosehip oil natural anti-inflammatory properties. It can help calm redness, soothe irritated skin and reduce the swelling associated with acne and conditions like rosacea and eczema.
Fades scars and hyperpigmentation. One of the most well-known benefits of rosehip oil is its ability to improve the appearance of scars — including acne scars, surgical scars and stretch marks. The vitamin A and fatty acids work together to regenerate skin cells and encourage healthy tissue repair, gradually fading discolouration and improving skin texture.
Lightweight and non-comedogenic. Despite being an oil, rosehip oil won't clog your pores. Its high linoleic acid content actually helps regulate oil production, making it suitable for acne-prone and oily skin types — not just dry skin.
Who should use rosehip oil?
One of the best things about rosehip oil is how universally beneficial it is. The rosehip seed oil benefits apply to virtually every skin type:
Dry skin: The essential fatty acids deeply hydrate and restore the moisture barrier, relieving tightness and flaking.
Oily and acne-prone skin: Rosehip oil is high in linoleic acid, which oily skin is often deficient in. Applying it can actually help balance sebum production rather than increase it. It's also non-comedogenic, so it won't block pores.
Mature skin: The natural retinol and vitamin C content support collagen production and cell renewal, helping to reduce fine lines and improve skin elasticity.
Sensitive skin: Its anti-inflammatory properties make it soothing and calming — ideal for skin that's easily irritated or reactive.
Hyperpigmentation and scarring: The combination of vitamins A and C, plus essential fatty acids, makes rosehip oil one of the most effective natural oils for fading dark marks, evening out skin tone and improving scar tissue.
How to use rosehip oil in your skincare routine
Rosehip oil is best used as part of a consistent skincare routine. Here's how to incorporate it effectively:
After cleansing and toning. Apply rosehip oil after you've cleansed and toned your face. This allows the oil to penetrate clean skin and lock in the hydration from your toner.
Use a small amount. Two to three drops is enough for the entire face. Warm the oil between your fingertips and press it gently into the skin — don't rub. Let it absorb for a minute before applying any additional products.
Morning and evening. Rosehip oil can be used twice daily. In the morning, apply it before your SPF. In the evening, use it as the final step in your routine to support overnight skin repair.
Layer it correctly. Apply rosehip oil after water-based products (toners, serums) but before heavier creams or SPF. Oil creates a barrier on the skin, so anything applied on top of it won't absorb as effectively.
Be consistent. Like most natural skincare ingredients, rosehip oil delivers results over time — not overnight. Give it four to six weeks of consistent use before judging its effectiveness.
Rosehip oil vs other face oils
There are many plant oils used in skincare, so how does rosehip oil compare?
Rosehip oil vs argan oil: Argan oil is richer and more emollient, making it ideal for very dry skin and hair. Rosehip oil is lighter and better suited to targeting specific concerns like scarring, dark marks and fine lines. Many effective skincare products combine both — offering deep nourishment from argan oil alongside the repair and renewal benefits of rosehip oil.
Rosehip oil vs jojoba oil: Jojoba oil closely mimics the skin's natural sebum, making it excellent for balancing oil production. However, it doesn't offer the same vitamin A and C content as rosehip oil, so it's less effective for anti-ageing and pigmentation concerns.
Rosehip oil vs coconut oil: Coconut oil is comedogenic (pore-clogging) for many people, especially on the face. Rosehip oil is non-comedogenic and far better suited to facial skincare.
In short, rosehip oil stands out for its unique combination of vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids — delivering repair, protection and hydration in one lightweight oil.
Experience the benefits of rosehip oil
If you want to add rosehip oil to your daily routine, try Sustain (oil cleansing protection) from Like It On Top. Sustain is formulated with organic rosehip oil alongside argan oil, avocado oil, sweet almond oil and vitamin E — combining the benefits of rosehip oil with other powerhouse plant oils for maximum nourishment. Use it as an oil cleanser, a facial oil or as part of the 4-Step Kit for a complete skincare routine. Handmade, natural and vegan. Also available in a nut-free formula.
Looking for more? Browse our bestselling skincare products to find your perfect natural skincare routine.