Rosehip is full of vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids
that are said to correct dark spots and hydrate dry, itchy skin, all
while reducing scars and fine lines. The oil is high in beta carotene (a
form of vitamin A), Vitamin C and Vitamin E, which are all antioxidants
that help fight free radicals. These vitamins help to protect the skin
and increase cell turnover. This makes it a beautiful moisturizer, for
both the face and the rest of the body. Rosehip is also said to firm the
skin, even out its tone, and even brighten it.
Rosehip oil’s healing properties are due to its chemical structure.
It’s rich in essential fatty acids, but more specifically oleic,
palmitic, linoleic and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Rosehip oil contains
polyunsaturated fatty acids (vitamin F), also known as an essential
fatty acid (EFA), and when absorbed through the skin, these fatty acids
convert to prostaglandins (PGE), which are involved in cellular membrane
and tissue regeneration.
rosehip is said to:
- Possess anti-aging properties: This comes from its
high antioxidant content and the oil’s ability to penetrate into deeper
layers of the skin where it can improve moisture levels and reduce
visible signs of aging. It is said to stimulate collagen production in
the skin.
- Protect the skin from age spots: The antioxidants
found in rosehip oil, especially the combination of Vitamin C and
Vitamin E, can help to combat free radicals that cause sun damage. These
antioxidants can actually reduce the overproduction of pigments in the
skin, which is what leads to uneven tone and age spots in the first
place.
- Help with stretch marks and reduce acne scarring:
The essential fatty acids found in rosehip oil can help rid the skin of
scars and reduce the appearance of stretch marks by promoting skin
regeneration. When applied topically, the essential fatty acids act as
emollients helping to soften the skin while also increasing hydration.
- Boost the immune system: Rosehips are one of the
best plant sources of vitamin C, which helps to treat infections and
boost the immune system. Fresh rosehips, rosehip tea or rosehip
supplements are all great options for keeping the immune system strong.
- Reduce inflammation and help with arthritis: The
high vitamin C content has been said to reduce arthritis-associated
inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory enzymes and
proteins. It is said that when added to bath water or applied to
inflamed areas, Rosehip oil might just help ease the inflammation.