What it is
Sea buckthorn fruit oil is notable for its rich orange-red color, which comes from a high carotenoid content, and it also contains fatty acids and tocopherols. In skincare and sunscreens it is used as a nourishing emollient and antioxidant-bearing oil. Because of its intense pigment, it is typically used at low levels to avoid imparting strong color to a formula.
Safety & warnings
Sea buckthorn fruit oil is generally well tolerated as an emollient. As a plant lipid it may feel rich on oily or acne-prone skin, and like other botanical oils it can cause sensitivity in predisposed individuals. Its strong natural color can transfer at higher use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; oil obtained from the fruit (berries) of the sea buckthorn shrub (Hippophae rhamnoides).
Questions everyone asks
Why is sea buckthorn oil orange?
Its deep orange-red color comes from a high content of carotenoid pigments in the fruit.
What does sea buckthorn oil do in a sunscreen?
It acts as a conditioning emollient oil that also carries antioxidant compounds.