Learn how to use sea buckthorn oil for skin lightening and other skin woes in this short yet informative article. Keep reading to know more!
Sea buckthorn oil is a type of carrier oil that is in use since ancient times to treat various medical ailments. It is extracted from the fruits of the sea buckthorn plant, commonly found in different parts of Central Asia, Europe, Russia, and China. Various species of this plant are grown, but the most preferable species by the cosmetics industry is the Hippophae rhamnoides. It is native to the colder temperature regions of Europe and Central Asia.
The oil is extracted by cold pressing either the pulp of the fruit or the plant’s seeds. The one extracted through the pulp is bright red-orange, while the seed oil is lighter in color with a yellowish shade. Both varieties have numerous vitamins and nutrients and help in combatting various skin problems.
Nutritional Components
- Sea Buckthorn oil has omega fatty acids, including omega-3, omega-6, omega-7, and omega-9 among others. All these acids can provide relief to various skin disorders.
- It is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E and has high amounts of antioxidants.
Sea Buckthorn Oil for Skin Lightening
In general terms, it is known that skin color is affected by the presence of melanin. The more melanin, the darker the skin color. Skin tanning due to exposure to the sun is due to the production of melanin. The fatty acids in sea buckthorn oil and the antioxidants help eliminate melanin and hence can lighter the skin tone. It has a very high amount of Vitamin C, making it extremely useful in treating skin pigmentation and getting a uniform skin tone.
While both oils can help get good skin texture, seed oil is more effective for skin lightening. The seed oil has omega-3 present in it along with omega 6 and 9 compared to omega 7, 6, and 9 in the fruit oil. Omega 3 and antioxidants can help reduce melanin production and protect from damage caused due to UV rays. Therefore, you can use sea buckthorn oil for skin lightening due to its various beneficial properties that will help you in getting an even and light skin tone.
How to Use
1. As a Serum
Clean your face with lukewarm water and take 2-3 drops of sea buckthorn oil and apply it to the face gently in a circular motion. Don’t massage too much and let the skin absorb the oil before applying moisturizer. Doing this once a day can show significant results in a few weeks.
2. Face Mask
Take one tablespoon of aloe vera gel and mix it with ½ a tablespoon of each honey and sea buckthorn oil. Mix all the ingredients until well combined. Apply on the face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Wash it off with water and moisturize your face as usual.
3. Face Scrub
Mix equal amounts of oat flakes and sea buckthorn oil and grind it with a blender. Add an egg yolk to this mixture and whisk it together. Apply on clean face and wash it off after 10-15 minutes. Apply a moisturizer after this to keep the skin nourished and hydrated. Do this twice a week to see impressive results.
Other Benefits of Sea Buckthorn Oil for Skin
1. Moisturizing Properties
This oil is one of the few natural sources of omega-7 fatty acids suitable for topical application. Using this oil can help in treating dry and itchy skin. It seeps into the epidermis and seals the moisture. It may also help soothe skin conditions such as eczema.
2. Anti-Aging
Rich in omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, sea buckthorn can help boost the elasticity of the skin. It helps in improving collagen production and hence reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
3. Treating Acne
It helps regulate the sebum production on the face and hence can help in reducing acne breakouts. Applying it regularly can also help to fade acne scars, heal blemishes and other pigmentations, giving an overall smooth skin texture. It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce redness and swelling. Sea buckthorn oil has a comedogenic rating of 1 on the scale and hence, it will not clog the pores even on oily skin.
Advisory
As for any skincare product, it is essential to do a patch test before applying it to the face. It is safe to use on all skin types and does not clog pores.
