What it is
Sea buckthorn fruit extract is derived from the orange berries of Hippophae rhamnoides and naturally contains vitamins, carotenoids, and other polyphenolic antioxidants. In skin care it is used as a conditioning and antioxidant botanical and is often chosen for formulas marketed around nourishment and skin comfort. In sunscreens it serves as a supporting botanical and does not provide UV protection.
Safety & warnings
Generally well tolerated at cosmetic use levels. The deep orange carotenoid content can lend color to formulas. As with any botanical, sensitive individuals may occasionally react and can patch test; the fruit extract is water- or solvent-based and not associated with comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; obtained from the fruit of the sea buckthorn shrub, Hippophae rhamnoides, which grows in parts of Europe and Asia.
Questions everyone asks
Why is sea buckthorn used in skin care?
It is valued as an antioxidant and conditioning botanical because the berries naturally contain vitamins and carotenoids.
Does it provide sun protection?
No. It is not a UV filter and does not protect against the sun on its own.