Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit 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 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 Oil?

Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil is a golden to reddish oil pressed from the small orange berries of the sea buckthorn shrub, a resilient plant that thrives along coastal areas and mountain slopes in Europe and Asia. The oil is naturally rich in carotenoids that give it a deep color, as well as vitamins A, C and E, omega-7 and omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols and antioxidants. Folk cultures in Russia, China and Scandinavia valued sea buckthorn berries for skin care long before modern cosmetics picked up the ingredient in the late twentieth century. Today manufacturers typically obtain the oil by cold pressing cleaned, dried berries or by using supercritical CO2 extraction to preserve heat-sensitive nutrients.

Because of its vivid hue and protective properties, formulators blend Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil into facial oils, serums, moisturizers, after-sun lotions, anti-aging creams, lip balms, hair masks and hand treatments aimed at improving skin comfort and resilience.

Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In cosmetics Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil is valued primarily for the following action:

Skin protecting: The oil forms a lightweight occlusive layer that helps lock in moisture, shields the surface from environmental stressors like wind or pollution and supplies a mix of antioxidants and essential fatty acids that support the skin’s natural barrier. Regular use can help skin feel softer, look more even toned and appear less prone to dryness or redness.

Who Can Use Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil

This oil suits most skin types, especially normal, dry and mature skin that benefit from its nourishing fatty acids. Combination and sensitive skin usually tolerate it as well because the oil is lightweight and calming. Very oily or acne-prone skin should start with low concentrations since the richer texture might feel heavy if overused.

The ingredient is plant-derived so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. No animal products or by-products are involved in its extraction.

Current research shows no known issues for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor review all skincare products to be on the safe side.

Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil does not increase photosensitivity and can actually help defend against environmental stress when paired with daily sunscreen. There are no known interactions with common cosmetic actives, making it easy to layer into most routines.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil vary from person to person. The following are potential side effects but they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness itching or small bumps
  • Temporary orange staining of very fair skin or light fabrics due to the high carotenoid content
  • Clogged pores or breakouts if applied in excessive amounts on very oily skin
  • Rancid or off odor if the oil has oxidized which can in turn irritate skin

If any irritation or discomfort occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 2 out of 5. Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil contains a balanced mix of lightweight omega-7 and omega-3 fatty acids alongside richer omega-6 and omega-9 components. This composition means it can nourish skin without instantly blocking pores, yet in higher percentages it may feel heavy for very oily complexions. Most users with normal, dry or combination skin will not experience congestion, but those who are highly acne-prone might prefer products where the oil is used in low amounts or blended with faster-absorbing carriers. Formulation quality and freshness also matter because oxidized oils are more likely to irritate and clog.

Summary

Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil protects skin by forming a light occlusive veil, boosting moisture retention and supplying antioxidants, carotenoids and essential fatty acids that reinforce the natural barrier. These nutrients help calm redness, smooth texture and support a healthier looking complexion.

The oil enjoys steady popularity in niche clean beauty lines and spa inspired formulas though it remains less common than classics like jojoba or argan because of its strong color and slightly higher cost.

Topically it is regarded as safe for most users with a low risk of serious adverse effects. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test a fresh product first to confirm personal compatibility.

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