Roses are red...and full of benefits for the skin

There’s nothing like a bouquet of roses, or even a single rose, to make a person feel special. Roses have long been associated with love, romance and celebrations.

While roses are great eye-candy, the benefits of roses extend beyond what meets the eye. The properties in these classic flowers provide special nourishment for the skin.

The bud of a rose, known as rosehip, produces a skin-nourishing oil when the seeds at its center are crushed. Rosehip (seed) oil, as it is called, has a number of benefits that make it a great and effective addition to skin care products. Here are some benefits of incorporating rosehip oil into a skincare routine:

Moisture

Rosehip oil has nourishing fatty acids that serve as a strong base for a moisturizer. Fatty acids keep skin cell walls strong so that they retain water, keeping your skin hydrated. In case you didn’t know, hydrated skin is healthy and happy skin. Hydration promotes skin softness and elasticity.

Anti-aging

Fresh rosehip has a high level of vitamin C which has great anti-aging effects on the skin. Rosehip also contains carotenoids, which are vitamin A-like compounds that help with skin turnover and skin cell regeneration. An increase in skin cell regeneration aids in the appearance of reduced fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, oils that are rich in vitamin A and C are known to aid in the production of collagen. Collectively these properties promote the appearance of youthful skin.

Scar healing

When a wound heals slowly or improperly, it can leave a small dark scar on the skin. A Chinese study at Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology showed that rosehip oil significantly promoted wound healing and effectively improved skin scars. The oils in rosehip alter the structure of skin macrophages*, meaning that wounds heal properly and scars fade quickly.

*Are you thinking, ‘What on earth is a macrophage?’ Don’t worry, we got you. A macrophage is just a type of skin cell around a cut that works to help your skin heal!

Acne Fighting and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Acne and skin blemishes result from clogged pores when oil and dirt irritate your skin. A study by the Osteoarthritis Society found that rosehip oil is rich in polyphenols and anthocyanin, which work to reduce redness and irritation in skin cells, helping to prevent acne. Rosehip also contains vitamin E, an antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory properties and redness reduction.

As you can see, the benefits of roses and, more specifically, rosehip oil on the skin are plenty. You can enjoy these benefits when you treat yourself to Bloom, the Spring Collection from By Justine. Our Roses are Red, Hand, Face & Body Scrub and Citrus Bloom, Hand, Foot & Body Creme each feature rosehip essential oil as a key ingredient to help the natural beauty in your skin bloom all season long.