Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice: 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 27, 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 Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice?

Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice is the bright orange liquid pressed from the berries of the sea buckthorn shrub, a resilient plant that thrives along sandy coastlines and mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. The juice is naturally rich in vitamins C and E, provitamin A carotenoids, flavonoids, and a rare balance of omega-3, 6, 7 and 9 fatty acids, giving it a profile that supports skin softness and resilience. Sea buckthorn berries have been used for centuries in folk beauty rituals across Tibet and Russia, prized for their ability to soothe weather-beaten skin. Modern cosmetic formulators adopted the ingredient in the late 20th century once cold-press technology made it possible to capture its nutrients without heavy processing.

The juice is typically produced by harvesting ripe berries, washing them, then mechanically pressing or pulping the fruit. The resulting liquid is filtered to remove seeds and skins and may be gently pasteurized to ensure stability while preserving its active compounds. In some cases it is further concentrated or blended with natural preservatives before being added to skin care recipes.

Thanks to its vivid color and nourishing content, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice shows up in a variety of cosmetic products such as brightening masks, revitalizing serums, daily moisturizers, sun-exposed skin treatments and anti-aging creams where it lends both skin benefits and a warm golden hue.

Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

When used topically this ingredient delivers the following benefit:

Skin conditioning: the juice replenishes essential fatty acids and antioxidants that help smooth rough patches, boost moisture retention and support the skin’s natural barrier. Its vitamins and carotenoids can also lend a healthy glow, making the complexion look refreshed and supple.

Who Can Use Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice

This ingredient generally suits most skin types. Dry or mature skin tends to gain the most thanks to the fatty acids and antioxidants that soften and replenish moisture. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because the juice is gentle and naturally soothing, though very reactive skin should start with lower concentrations. Oily and combination skin can also use it because the juice is lightweight and absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy residue.

Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice is a plant derived ingredient, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are involved in harvesting or processing the berries.

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals can typically use products containing this juice topically, but this is not medical advice. To be safe run any new skincare routine past a doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

The juice has not been shown to cause photosensitivity, so it does not make skin more prone to sunburn. Regular sun protection is still recommended with any daytime routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions that are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis itching, redness or swelling in users allergic to sea buckthorn or related plants
  • Temporary skin staining the vivid orange pigment may leave a faint tint on very fair skin or light fabrics until washed off
  • Mild breakouts pimples or congestion can occur in acne prone skin if a formula is too rich or combined with heavier occlusives
  • Stinging on compromised skin fresh cuts, eczema or open blemishes may feel a brief burn due to the natural fruit acids

If you experience any unpleasant reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5 Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice is mostly water based with only a small fraction of lightweight fatty acids, so it is unlikely to block pores. Its antioxidant rich profile supports skin without forming a heavy film that can trap debris. In most cases it is suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin. If a formula contains additional rich oils or waxes the overall product could be more comedogenic so always consider the full ingredient list.

Summary

Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice conditions skin by supplying vitamins C and E, carotenoids and a balanced mix of omega fatty acids that reinforce the moisture barrier, soften rough spots and promote a healthy looking glow. Though not as famous as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, it has a steady following in natural beauty lines and is gaining traction in brightening and barrier support formulas. Topical use is generally safe with low risk of irritation or clogging, but as with any new skincare ingredient it is sensible to patch test first to ensure personal compatibility.

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