What Does Sea Buckthorn Oil Do For The Skin? 7 Benefits + How To Use It

While some skin care trends seem to stick around for a week, others become a staple in routines everywhere. Slugging is just one example—but it's important to note that the practice of lathering on petrolatum-based jelly isn't the most sustainable ritual. 

Sea buckthorn1 shrubs produce tiny, orange-yellow, citrus-like berries. These berries, also known as seaberries, have been used for centuries in the form of juice, wine, pie filling, and even liquors. The consumption of these berries is widespread but originated (and is still the most abundant) in China. 

In more recent years, sea buckthorn oil has gained popularity for its skin-softening properties, though it's also been used topically for centuries. The fatty acid properties are similar to other botanical oils, but its nutrient profile is particularly rich. 

"Sea buckthorn oil is a good source of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as flavonoids, all of which have antioxidant properties," board-certified dermatologist Rebecca Marcus, M.D., FAAD, tells mbg. 

Seaberries are not only a good source but arguably one of the best sources of these nutrients. "Sea buckthorn extract has one of the highest concentrations of flavonoids and phenolic compounds," board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skintensive Anar Mikailov, M.D., FAAD, tells mbg.

While you may immediately assume using oils on already oily skin types is unproductive, the opposite is true with certain botanical options—sea buckthorn oil included. 

"Studies have shown that sea buckthorn is acne-skin friendly as it helps normalize sebaceous glands from producing excess sebum," Mikailov explains. However, you'll want to be careful when shopping for sea buckthorn products. While the oil itself may not clog your pores, other filler ingredients may. 

"The high concentration of fatty acids, including omega fatty acids and phytosterols are incredibly nourishing and hydrating for the skin," Mikailov says.

"However, it's the overall combination of all these compounds in sea buckthorn extract—the antioxidants, vitamins, fatty acids—that gives it its pro-collagen remodeling benefits, increase skin hydration by improving the skin barrier to reduce transepidermal water loss2 (TEWL)," he adds. 

Not to mention, a 2017 animal study3 proved that sea buckthorn oil can be a helpful remedy for those with eczema. When looking for eczema-safe products, keep an eye out for essential oils and other potentially irritating additives.

"Because of its unique omega fatty acid composition, sea buckthorn oil is noncomedogenic and great for aging, dehydrated, rosacea-prone skin," clean cosmetic chemist and founder of KKT Consultants Krupa Koestline tells mbg.

Even the most sensitive skin types can benefit from this oil. "Clinical trials, animal experiments, as well as clinical practice have shown great anti-inflammatory benefits of the oil," Koestline says. She adds that it can also support wound healing for burns and even scars. 

Sea buckthorn oil provides great slip for use on the body as well. From full-body gua sha to massage and more, you can use this natural oil to connect to your body through touch. 

"Those [with] a dry, inflamed scalp, whether from normal dry winter weather or seborrheic dermatitis, can benefit from the hydrating, nourishing, and anti-inflammatory benefits of sea buckthorn," Mikalov explains. 

"Fatty acids, as well as vitamins present in sea buckthorn oil, can provide nourishment and hydration to the scalp and support the structure of the hair," Marcus adds. 

When the topical application is combined with scalp massage, the benefits are even more impressive. In one clinical study, participants who regularly massaged their scalps saw an increase in hair thickness4. 

As mentioned above, this oil helps regulate oil production on the skin, which is ideal for those prone to an oily scalp too.

"I recommend always buying straight, cold-pressed oil without any additives to see the best results," Koestline says. However, the oil is highly pigmented and thus should be used with another carrier oil (consider jojoba, grapeseed, etc.).