Sea Buckthorn may seem like the name of some sea animal or oceanic wildlife but instead it's completely land-grown and has a skin-benefitting profile like no other.
Don’t let the name confuse you. This next ingredient does not originate in the sea and actually has nothing to do with the ocean. Sea buckthorn is actually derived from the fruit, leaves and seeds of the Sea Buckthorn plant. Sea buckthorn also is also sometimes referred to as Seaberry or Hippophae Rhamnoides and can only grow in cold climates, especially the Himalayan region. A signature to sea buckthorn oil is its eye-catching orange-red tint.
Sea buckthorn may seem like a new ingredient, but it has actually been used for centuries for medicinal practices due to the minerals and vitamins that make it a superfood. It is exceptionally rich in Vitamin C, up to 12x higher than an orange, as well as containing over 190 nutrients and phytonutrients. Its antioxidant profile includes vitamins B1, B2, K, C, A and E, and folic acid to name a few. Sea buckthorn is also rich in essential fatty acids (omega 3, omega 6, omega 7 and omega 9) that supports the skin’s overall health and protective barrier. In terms of oral consumption, sea buckthorn is said to lower blood pressure and reduce chances of heart diseases and cancer.
Benefits
Repairs damaged skin
- Sea buckthorn is rich in essential fatty acids and these fatty acids help repair damaged skin barrier that may result in inflammation, irritation or itchiness.
- Not just healing skin caused by sensitivity reactions, those with chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can also use sea buckthorn to help relieve inflammation.
Combats free radicals
- The antioxidant portfolio in sea buckthorn helps neutralize free radicals that can help prevent premature aging. This is because free radicals lead to oxidative stress damage which often leads to a weakened skin barrier and premature aging concerns.
- Sea buckthorn contains 12x more Vitamin C than an orange and is considered to have the 3rd highest source of Vitamin E compared to any botanical ingredient. It also contains carotenoids, tocopherol, lycopene and carotenoids that are all potent antioxidants.
Deeply hydrating
- Sea buckthorn Is also very hydrating, by helping to repair the skin barrier, the skin is better at retaining moisture.
Lessens pigmentation
- With the high Vitamin C concentration, sea buckthorn can help fade pigmentation (scarring, dark spots) by inhibiting melanin production contributing to a brighter, clearer looking skin.
Anti-aging
- The antioxidants have the ability to enhance collagen production that helps plump, firm and smooth the skin.
What to note?
- Sea buckthorn does have a striking orange tint that can stain fabric, including clothing, beddings and towels. So, we recommend placing a towel on your pillow or using a dark-colored bedding to avoid visible staining.
- As with all new ingredients and products, we advise to conduct a patch test 24-48 hours prior to full face application.
Products we recommend and where to find them
The Ordinary 100% Organic Virgin Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil
This facial oil by The Ordinary is sustainably sourced, organic, unrefined and virgin in origin. It is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants that nourishes and protects the skin from free radicals, environmental threats and helping to maintain the skin barrier’s health.
The INKEY List Oil and Water Double Cleanser
This 2-in-1 daily cleanser contains 2% Sea Buckthorn, 16% Sweet Almond oil and 1% Panthenol that gently removes makeup, skin impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. It also nourishes the skin and improves the skin’s moisture levels. If using to remove makeup, be sure to follow up with a water-based cleanser.
AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
A Niacinamide-based serum that promises to correct dark spots and balance out uneven skin tone with the addition of Sea Buckthorn and Papaya. With the help of Squalane, the serum also helps the skin better retain moisture and keep it looking healthy wherever you go.
COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream
This Hyaluronic Acid moisturizing cream that boosts moisture levels and retains that moisture in the skin, preventing from dehydration. It also contains Sea Buckthorn oil for extra nourishment of amino acids and antioxidants to repair cells and slows signs of aging.
Commonlabs Vitamin C Brightening Gel Cream
Perfect if you’re looking to revitalize tired and dull-looking skin. This gel-cream moisturizer contains Vitamin C, PHA and 30% Sea Buckthorn Water that helps hydrate the skin and improve the skin’s texture and complexion.
Dr.Jart+ Dermask Shaking Rubber Luminous Shot
This cream-to-sheet formula mask contains a skin brightening ampoule consisting of Vitamin C and Sea Buckthorn extract and aims to even out skin tone, brighten and revitalize dull skin.
iUNIK Propolis Vitamin Eye Cream
Formulated with 40.5% Propolis extract and 9.2% Sea Buckthorn extract, this eye cream works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles near the eye area.
There are tons of facial oils and natural ingredients on the market and getting to know them individually is practically impossible. But Sea Buckthorn is one you’ll definitely one to keep your eye on and try out if you have the opportunity, its skin-benefiting component profile is far from basic and very much amazing. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment down below.
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