Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil?

Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil is a plant oil pressed from the tiny seeds inside the hips of the sweet briar rose, a wild rose that grows mainly in the cool mountainous areas of South America. The oil is naturally rich in linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids, plus smaller amounts of oleic acid, vitamin A compounds, and vitamin E, which together give it its skin-loving reputation. People living in the Andes have long applied the oil to soften weather-worn skin, and interest spread worldwide after studies in the 1980s highlighted its visible skin benefits. To make the oil, the ripe rose hips are cleaned, seeds are separated then cold-pressed or gently solvent-extracted, and the resulting golden liquid is filtered to remove plant particles. In today’s beauty market you will see this ingredient in facial serums, lightweight moisturizers, anti aging creams, brightening masks, scar and stretch mark oils, nourishing body lotions, lip balms, and even conditioning hair treatments.

Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

When added to skincare formulas Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil mainly acts as an emollient. By filling the gaps between skin cells with its fatty acids it smooths rough patches, softens texture, and helps skin hold on to water. This leaves the surface feeling supple and comfortable while giving products a silky slip that makes them pleasant to apply.

Who Can Use Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil

Most skin types can enjoy this oil. Its lightweight texture and high level of linoleic and alpha linolenic acids make it especially welcome on normal, dry, mature and sensitive skin where it helps restore softness and comfort. Combination skin usually tolerates it well too. Very oily or easily congested complexions might find it a bit too rich in certain formulas because the small amount of oleic acid can feel heavier and might encourage clogged pores if layered thickly.

The oil is 100 percent plant derived, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians and is commonly sourced from suppliers that do not test on animals.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the oil is applied topically in cosmetic amounts. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show any product they plan to use to their doctor just to be safe.

Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil does not make skin more sensitive to the sun and can be used both morning and night without increasing the risk of sunburn. It also has no known interactions with typical cosmetic actives like vitamin C, niacinamide or gentle exfoliating acids.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects only; most users will not experience any problems when the oil is included correctly in a well formulated product.

  • Skin irritation – a small number of people may notice redness, stinging or itching
  • Allergic contact dermatitis – rare but possible in individuals allergic to roses or other plants in the Rosaceae family
  • Breakouts or clogged pores – may occur in some very oily or acne prone users if the oil is layered heavily or mixed with other rich emollients
  • Oxidation related irritation – the oil is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids that can go rancid if the product is old or stored poorly, potentially leading to an off smell and skin discomfort

If you experience any of the above issues stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5. Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil is high in lighter linoleic and alpha linolenic acids and low in heavier oleic acid, so it sinks in more easily and is less likely to sit on top of skin and block pores. Most acne prone users tolerate it, but very oily or congestion prone skin could still experience breakouts if the oil is applied in thick layers or combined with other rich ingredients. Fresh, well-stored oil further reduces the risk of clogged pores.

Summary

Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil’s main job in cosmetics is to act as an emollient that smooths skin, softens rough spots and supports a healthy moisture barrier. Its mix of essential fatty acids, pro vitamin A compounds and vitamin E also lends a touch of antioxidant care that can help improve the look of fine lines and uneven tone over time.

The oil has carved out a solid place in natural and anti aging skincare lines, turning up in everything from boutique facial serums to budget friendly body lotions. While it is not as universally talked about as argan or jojoba oil, its reputation for visible skin improvement keeps it steadily popular among formulators who favor plant based actives.

Topically, Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil is considered safe for most people with only a small chance of irritation or pore clogging. As with any new cosmetic ingredient, it is wise to try a patch test first and watch how your skin responds before applying it widely.

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