Sea buckthorn oil is likely the premier essential oil for skin health in therapeutic aromatherapy. It contains high amounts of carrotenoids, including pro-vitamin A, which we all know encourages skin cell proliferation. Significant levels of vitamin E and C are also present. Components of the oil are used in a wide variety of commercial skin care preparations, particularly anti-aging topical creams.

The oil can easily be added to any base or essential oil blend - a 1% concentration is considered effective, and up to 10% concentrations have been used without side effects. The oil has a deep red color from the high carrotenoid concentration. It may impart a hue on your skin for a few minutes while it absorbs.

Among the few reported effects of the extract of Sea Buckthorn berries is the retardation of the aging process of the skin; protection from UV rays; support of skin healing of all kinds including burns, skin ulcers, acne and many forms of inflammation (dermatitis). The oil may be effective in alopecia blends, perhaps in a way that Retin-A also stimulating hair growth. The oil has high amounts of many anti-oxidants, and not only delivers their protective effects to your skin, but has an exceptionally long shelf life as well.

Sea buckthorn will synergize with other skin healing oils like Helichrysum, Lavender, Rosemary Verbenone and Carrot Seed. Rosehip seed would be a complimentary carrier oil at around 20% of the total base. This oil has a lovely, rich aroma, too.