When an anonymous source divulged that Kate Middleton used rosehip oil to keep her skin plump and dewy, it sold out in 20 seconds. Sure, you could argue that that's the power of a royal endorsement - or it was the natural ingredient's simplicity and affordability that made it the most sought-after formula?
Originally used by the Mayans and Native Americans for its healing properties, rosehip oil is pressed from the seeds of wild rosehip fruit and has a high ratio of linoleic, alpha-linolenic and oleic acid, as well as tocopherol and carotenoid which, in short, act as anti-inflammatories and antioxidants to neutralize oxidative stress caused by everyday aggressors such as pollution and UV rays.
Packed full of high concentrations of vitamin A, B1, B2, B3 and vitamin C gives rosehip oil potent healing properties. While the latter protects and repairs UV damage, vitamin A encourages cell turnover, leading to a brighter complexion. And for those with a drier complexion, rosehip oil is perfect for a hit of moisture thanks to the inclusion of linoleic acid – an essential component of ceramides, the skin’s main moisturising element which is what we can thank for that plump, dewy visage.
Often used on patients post-surgery, rosehip oil's antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties make it perfect for scars, pigmentation or those with acneic skin types. Although it may sound counterintuitive applying oil on to oily skin, rosehip oil has low comedogenicity (meaning it doesn't block pores) and has been proven to calm redness and reduce cysts due to its high vitamin E and anthocyanin content.
So, we've established that rosehip oil is amazing for dry skin, oily skin and those prone to breakouts – it seems too good to be true. But to cement it as a natural skincare powerhouse, it's also ideal for mature skin types as it's been found to help increase collagen production and skin elasticity in just eight weeks of use. No wonder the Duchess of Cambridge is such a fan!
If you want to start incorporating rosehip oil into your skincare regime, we recommend you try the Willowberry Nutrient Boost Cleansing Balm, Willowberry Nutrient Boost Face Oil, or Willowberry Nutrient Boost Day Cream which all contain unrefined rosehip oil, for maximum nutrients and skin benefits.
Article by Jessica Harris
Willowberry is 'Nutritious Natural' skincare for grown-ups for your best skin. Loved by top make-up artists and facialists, Willowberry's luxurious award-winning products protect skin’s natural barrier function, to nourish and transform grown-up skin. As seen in Vogue, Independent, The Telegraph, This Morning and more.