What it does
- Provides antioxidant protection from carotenoids and vitamins.
- Soothes and supports dry, stressed or compromised skin.
- Conditions with omega-rich lipids (including omega-7).
How it works
Sea buckthorn is widely documented for its unusually rich profile of carotenoids, tocopherols and omega fatty acids (notably omega-7 palmitoleic acid). These give antioxidant, soothing and skin-conditioning benefits. The fruit oil is a vivid orange, which can strongly colour formulas.
Use level
- Typical use level
- extract/oil typically 0.1–1% (higher as an oil)
Extracts and oils are commonly used at 0.1–1% (higher when used as an oil). Its intense orange colour usually limits the level.
Formulation considerations
- Choose an oil or water/glycol grade to match your phase.
- Very strongly coloured (orange); low levels can still tint a formula.
- Protect from prolonged heat and light.
What it pairs with & what to avoid
Pairs well with
- Vitamin E and antioxidants
- Soothing actives
- Emollients
Use with care / avoid
- High levels where the orange colour is undesirable
Regulatory status
Hippophae rhamnoides extracts/oils are listed in the EU CosIng database and are well-established botanicals.
Common questions
What is sea buckthorn good for?
It provides antioxidant protection and soothes dry, stressed skin, thanks to its carotenoids, vitamins and omega fatty acids.
Why does sea buckthorn stain everything orange?
Its high carotenoid content gives an intense orange colour, so it is used at low levels.
What percentage of sea buckthorn is used?
Extracts and oils are typically 0.1–1%, limited partly by colour.