Sea buckthorn is a hardy shrub used in skincare as a seed or berry oil/extract, prized for its nourishing, regenerative, and antioxidant properties, thanks to its rich blend of fatty acids, vitamins, and carotenoids.

- SCIENTIFIC NAME: Hippophae rhamnoides (Sea buckthorn)
- FAMILY: Elaeagnaceae
- PLANT TYPE: Deciduous shrub native to Europe and Asia
- NATURAL HABITAT: Regions with harsh climates (Himalayas, Siberia, coastal
Scandinavia)
- COSMETIC FORMS:
Cold-pressed oil (from seeds or berries)
Fruit pulp extract
- APPEARANCE & SCENT: Vivid orange-red liquid with a tangy, fruity aroma
- NUTRITIONAL PROFILE:
- Seed oil: Rich in omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid), omega-6 (linoleic acid), and omega-9
- Berry oil: High in omega-7 (palmitoleic acid, rare in plants), vitamins C (up to 10 times
more than oranges), E, A (from carotenoids like beta-carotene), and flavonoids
- COSMETIC USES: Found in moisturizers, serums, balms, and masks labeled as "sea
buckthorn oil," "Hippophae rhamnoides oil," or "sea buckthorn fruit extract"
- TRADITIONAL MEDICINE: Recognized in Traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine for
healing and regeneration
- DISTINCTIVE FEATURES: Noted for vibrant color and nutrient density; often blended
with other ingredients to balance richness for broader cosmetic use

Sea buckthorn offers several skincare benefits:

Nourishing: Omega fatty acids (3, 6, 7, 9) deeply hydrate and repair the skin barrier, softening dry, rough, or damaged skin with a silky finish.
Regenerative: Vitamins A and E, plus omega-7, promote cell turnover and tissue repair, fading scars, burns, and stretch marks, ideal for healing.
Antioxidant Protection: Carotenoids, vitamin C, and flavonoids neutralize free radicals, shielding skin from UV damage and slowing aging signs like wrinkles.
Anti-Inflammatory: Soothes redness, irritation, and inflammation, calming eczema, rosacea, or sunburned skin with gentle efficacy.
Brightening: High vitamin C content fades hyperpigmentation and boosts radiance, enhancing an even, glowing complexion over time.
Note: Sea buckthorn is non-comedogenic but rich, so it may feel heavy on oily skin unless diluted. Its orange hue can stain lightly, and those with berry allergies should patch-test. The oil’s potency benefits from cool, dark storage.

Canada