Rubus Coreanus 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 Rubus Coreanus Seed Oil?

Rubus Coreanus Seed Oil is a plant oil pressed from the small hard seeds of Rubus coreanus, a berry often called Korean black raspberry. The oil is naturally rich in linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids, tocopherols, ellagic acid and phytosterols, which give it a light texture and a strong antioxidant profile. The berries have been used for centuries in Korean cuisine and folk skin remedies, but it was modern K-beauty labs that refined the seed oil and brought it into global skincare.

Production starts with fruit left over from juice or jam making. The seeds are separated, washed and thoroughly dried. They are then cold pressed or extracted with supercritical CO2 to keep heat-sensitive nutrients intact. The crude oil is filtered to remove particles, sometimes lightly deodorized, and finally tested for purity before being added to cosmetic formulations.

Because it is stable yet lightweight, Rubus Coreanus Seed Oil shows up in a variety of products such as facial serums, anti aging creams, lightweight moisturizers, overnight masks, lip balms, sun-after lotions and even hair conditioners where shine and antioxidant care are needed.

Rubus Coreanus Seed Oil’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In formulas this ingredient is valued mainly for one key role.

Antioxidant: The oil’s natural tocopherols and polyphenols help neutralize free radicals generated by UV rays and pollution, which can slow the look of premature aging and support a more even, radiant complexion. Its antioxidant action also helps protect delicate unsaturated oils within the product itself, extending shelf life without synthetic stabilizers.

Who Can Use Rubus Coreanus Seed Oil

This lightweight oil suits most skin types thanks to its high linoleic and alpha-linolenic content that absorb quickly without leaving a greasy film. Dry and mature skin benefit from its emollient feel while combination or oily skin often find it balancing rather than pore clogging. Extremely sensitive skin or anyone with known berry or Rosaceae family allergies should proceed with extra caution as botanicals can sometimes trigger reactions.

Because the oil is 100 percent plant derived and processed without animal by-products it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.

Current data shows no specific concerns for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, yet research on this exact berry oil is still limited. This text is not medical advice so pregnant or nursing users should show any new skincare products to a qualified physician before adding them to a routine.

Rubus Coreanus Seed Oil is not photo-sensitising so it does not increase sun sensitivity. As with any new cosmetic ingredient store products containing the oil in a cool, dark place to preserve its antioxidant strength.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Rubus Coreanus Seed Oil vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects yet most users experience none of them when the oil is formulated and used correctly.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis – rare itching, redness or rash in individuals sensitive to berries or seed oils
  • Mild transient stinging – occasionally felt on freshly exfoliated or compromised skin barriers
  • Comedogenic flare-up – very acne-prone users may notice a few clogged pores if heavy layers are applied repeatedly
  • Cross-reactive allergy – people allergic to other members of the rose family such as strawberries or apples could in theory react similarly

If irritation or any adverse reaction develops discontinue use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Rubus Coreanus Seed Oil is rich in quick absorbing linoleic and alpha linolenic acids and contains only modest levels of heavier oleic or palmitic acids. This fatty acid profile keeps the oil thin and helps it sink in fast instead of forming a waxy film that can block pores.

Most acne-prone or breakout-prone users tolerate it well when used in light layers or within balanced formulas.

Keep in mind overall product richness and routine layering still matter. Pairing the oil with many occlusives or applying overly thick coats can weigh skin down and invite congestion.

Summary

In skincare Rubus Coreanus Seed Oil delivers two main perks: antioxidant defense and lightweight moisture. Tocopherols polyphenols and ellagic acid mop up free radicals while its essential fatty acids bolster the skin barrier leaving it smooth and comfortable.

The oil is still a niche find outside Korean beauty circles but its clean feel and berry origin are drawing more formulators looking for fresh hero oils.

Topically it is considered very safe with a low allergy and irritation profile. Still every complexion is different so patch testing a new product that contains the oil is a smart move before committing it to daily use.

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