Rosa rubiginosa (rosehip) berries growing on the vine

 

We use Rosa rubiginosa rosehip seed oil in Caraline Daily Nourish Face Oil because we believe it has a wide range of benefits that support the health of older skin.  We use only cold-pressed, sustainably grown oil sourced from Chile and wanted to nerd out here a bit to help you understand its benefits and get you excited about it too!  

 

What's Special about Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil?


Rosa rubiginosa, commonly known as the sweet briar or wild rose and often referred to as Rosa mosqueta, is a species of rose native to Europe and western Asia. The oil extracted from the seeds of this species of wild rose has been used for centuries for its remarkable healing properties. In recent years, scientific research has shed light on the chemical composition of Rosa rubiginosa oil and how it contributes to its therapeutic effects on the skin. 

 

Rosehips on the vine with snow-covered mountain in the background

 

To understand how Rosa rubiginosa oil benefits the skin, it’s important to understand its chemical composition. The oil contains a complex mixture of bioactive compounds that contribute to its healing properties. Among these compounds are essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). These fatty acids play crucial roles in maintaining skin health and have been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties.  Linoleic acid not only helps lock moisture into the skin but also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate various skin conditions such as acne and eczema. 

 

Additionally, Rosa rubiginosa oil contains high levels of antioxidants like tocopherols and carotenoids. These antioxidants help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollution and aid in reducing inflammation. 


Rosehip Face Oil Benefits for Older Skin

One key component that makes Rosa rubiginosa oil particularly beneficial for older skin is its high concentration of omega fatty acids, including omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9, which help maintain skin health. These fatty acids nourish and protect the skin while improving its elasticity and supporting the skin barrier. Additionally, they play a vital role in reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress caused by environmental factors such as UV radiation. 

 

Rosehips and rosehip oil

  

Another notable compound found in Rosa rubiginosa oil is trans-retinoic acid (tRA), a derivative of vitamin A. tRA has been extensively studied for its beneficial effects on aging skin. It stimulates collagen production, which helps to firm and plump the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines. Moreover, tRA aids in regulating melanin production, thus diminishing hyperpigmentation and promoting an even skin tone. 

Antioxidants Help Protect the Skin

Antioxidants play a crucial role in our bodies by protecting our cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules that can lead to various health problems.


Numerous studies have examined the antioxidant activity of Rosa rubiginosa oil, including one study conducted by Smith et al. (2015) aimed to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of Rosa rubiginosa oil through various assays. The researchers found that the oil exhibited substantial antioxidant activity, effectively scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. The high antioxidant capacity of Rosa rubiginosa oil can be attributed to its rich composition of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and vitamin E. These compounds work synergistically to neutralize free radicals and prevent cellular damage. 

 

Omega Fatty Acids Support the Skin Barrier


Omega fatty acids are a group of essential polyunsaturated fats that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being, particularly in terms of nutrition. But, did you know that they also are important for maintaining overall skin health?


The rosa rubiginosa oil in our rosehip face oil is particularly rich in two types of omega fatty acids: omega-3 and omega-6. These essential fatty acids have been extensively studied for their numerous health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids, such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), exhibit potent anti-inflammatory properties and have been associated with improved cardiovascular health, brain function, and mood regulation. These high levels of omega fatty acids make Rosehip Seed oil make this ingredient. a rockstar in any face oil blend.

 

Rosehips and an amber bottle of oil on a board


On the other hand, omega-6 fatty acids like linoleic acid (LA) have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory effects as well, playing a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin barrier function and promoting wound healing. The unique combination of these omega fatty acids within Rosa rubiginosa Oil contributes significantly to its therapeutic effects. Additionally, these essential fatty acids also help maintain proper hydration levels within the skin by enhancing skin barrier function while improving elasticity, and reducing inflammation. This makes Rosa rubiginosa Oil beneficial in treating conditions such as eczema or dry skin.  

Tocopherols And Carotenoids Calm and Protect 


The efficacy in promoting skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and reducing scar formation of Rosa rubiginosa oil has been widely acknowledged. Among the many bioactive compounds present in rosehip oil, tocopherols and carotenoids have emerged as key components responsible for enhancing its anti-inflammatory effects. 


What are Tocopherols? They are a group of fat-soluble compounds with vitamin E activity and are abundant in Rosa rubiginosa oil. Alpha-tocopherol is particularly prominent, exhibiting potent antioxidant properties that protect the skin from oxidative stress-induced damage. Studies have shown that tocopherols play a vital role in reducing inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. These compounds also regulate immune responses by modulating various signaling pathways involved in inflammation. 


Carotenoids are another group of bioactive compounds found in Rosehip seed oil. These pigments are responsible for the vibrant red-orange color of rosehips and possess potent antioxidant properties. Beta-carotene and lycopene are two major carotenoids identified in rosehip oil that contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects. Research suggests that carotenoids can inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory mediators while promoting the synthesis of anti-inflammatory molecules. 

 

Rosehip flowers on a Rosa rubiginosa plant

 

 The combined action of tocopherols and carotenoids synergistically enhances Rosehip seed oil's anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. This unique blend provides a powerful defense against inflammation-related skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Furthermore, these bioactive compounds not only alleviate existing inflammation but also prevent its recurrence by strengthening the skin's natural barrier function.


Collagen Synthesis And Moisturizing Effects 


As we age, collagen production naturally declines, which leads to the formation of wrinkles and sagging. However, research has shown that rosehip seed oil can help counteract this process by stimulating collagen synthesis, due to the fact that Rosa rubiginosa oil is rich in essential fatty acids like linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). 


These fatty acids play a significant role in cell membrane integrity and function while also acting as precursors for various signaling molecules involved in collagen production. Furthermore, Rosa rubiginosa oil contains high levels of vitamin A, which aids in regulating gene expression related to collagen synthesis while also promoting cellular turnover. 


In addition to stimulating collagen synthesis, rosehip seed oil is renowned for its exceptional moisturizing effects. The oil's composition includes a unique blend of emollients that create a protective barrier on the skin's surface. This barrier helps prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), enhancing the skin's natural hydration levels and reducing dryness, making it an excellent ingredient to include in a face oil.

We included Rosa Rubiginosa in Caraline Daily Nourish Face Oil because it provides a wide range of benefits for older skin such as helping the skin retain moisture, increased collagen synthesis, skin barrier support, and enhanced overall skin health.


 



October 30, 2023 — The Caraline Team

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