Sea Buckthorn Oil
What Is It?
Sea buckthorn oil is a nutrient-rich oil extracted from the berries (Hippophae rhamnoides). It is packed with omega-7, omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids, plus vitamins A, C, E, and K, making it highly beneficial for skin regeneration, hydration, and healing. It is commonly used in anti-aging, wound healing, and deeply nourishing skincare recipes.
INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients)
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil (from berries – richer in beta-carotene and antioxidants)Hippophae Rhamnoides Seed Oil (from seeds – higher in omega-3 and lighter in colour)
Proper Storage & Shelf Life
Storage: in a cool, dark place, away from heat and sunlight. Refrigeration is recommended to extend shelf life.
Shelf life:6 months to 1 year (due to high unsaturated fat content, it oxidizes quickly).
Refined Or Unrefined
Unrefined sea buckthorn oil is deep orange-red due to its high beta-carotene content and retains maximum nutrients.
Refined sea buckthorn oil has a lighter colour and less odour but may lose some beneficial compounds.
Is It Necessary?
Yes, if you want intense skin healing, anti-aging, and repair benefits. It’s also a powerful antioxidant oil rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene for brightening and cell regeneration. If you have dry, mature, or inflamed skin, as it deeply nourishes and reduces redness. It is also great for scar-fading, wound-healing oil (great for eczema, burns, and acne scars).
Texture & Consistency
Medium-thickness but absorbs well. Can leave an orange tint on the skin if used at high concentrations.
Natural Scent Profile
Strong, earthy, slightly fruity scent.
Solubility & Compatibility
Oil-soluble. Blends well with other carrier oils and butters but should be used at a low concentration (1-10%) due to its intense colour.
Benefits in Your Skincare
High in vitamin C: Brightens skin, promotes collagen production, and fights free radicals.
Deeply nourishing: Rich in omega-7, which helps restore the skin barrier.
Anti-inflammatory: Soothes eczema, rosacea, and irritated skin.
Heals scars & burns: Supports skin regeneration and repair.
Fights acne & redness: Balances sebum production and reduces inflammation.
PH
Absorbency Rate
Recommended Usage Rate
1-5% in facial oils and serums to avoid skin staining.
5-10% in creams, body oils, and masks.
Up to 100% for spot treatments or healing applications (use cautiously).
Appearance
Deep reddish-orange oil with a slightly thick consistency.
Strengths
✅ Extremely high in antioxidants and vitamins.
✅ Promotes collagen production and skin repair.
✅ Strong anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
✅ Deeply hydrating and nourishing.
Weaknesses
❌ Highly pigmented – can stain skin, clothes, and bedding.
❌ Short shelf life – requires proper storage to prevent rancidity.
❌ Strong scent – some people may not like the earthy aroma.
❌ Expensive compared to other carrier oils.
Alternative Ingredients/ Substitutions
Rosehip Oil: Also high in vitamin A, good for scars and anti-aging.
Tamanu Oil: Excellent for healing and reducing inflammation.
Marula Oil: Lighter alternative for deep hydration without staining.
Best Practices
Dilute with other carrier oils (e.g., jojoba, almond, or marula) to reduce staining.
Use at a low percentage (1-5%) in facial recipes. Store in an airtight, dark glass bottle in the fridge to extend shelf life.
Tips & Tricks
💡 Mix a drop into your moisturiser instead of applying directly to avoid staining.
💡 Use at night to allow full absorption without worrying about the orange tint.
💡 Apply to scars, burns, or irritated skin for rapid healing.
💡 Great in anti-aging serums, repair balms, and nourishing facial oils.
Recommended Starter Amount
30-50g (1-2 oz) to test in recipes before using larger quantities.