Rose hip seed oil has been successfully used in the alleviation of skin conditions originated in overexposure to solar rays, including photoaging (dermatoheliosis); these conditions are more likely to develop in people residing in zones of warm climate. This solar influence can be the cause of varied and serious changes in the skin. Dermatoheliosis severity ranges from small wrinkles to active keratosis and alteration in the melanin granules distribution.

To test the healing benefits of rose hip seed oil, volunteers were selected among people who usually spent the 3 months of summer in resorts by the sea or who go to the beach every day. The tests were carried out on 20 women aged between 25 and 35 who were controlled and assessed during the 1988 summer months. The most frequently noted cutaneous symptoms were surface wrinkles, eyelids, brown spots and, in some cases, an intense tan. During four months, all applied rose hip oil on the face (May to August, Autumn 1988).

Reports were made periodically every eight days to observe the effects of the treatment. Significant changes were noted starting on the third week. First, spots started to fade, surface wrinkles started to disappear until, at the end of the fourth month, the blemishes had almost completely faded. Skin had a fresh and smooth look without noticeable spots.

Treatment of Surgical Scar

This test considered scars with equal features. Ten women aged between 45 and 68 having suffered unilateral or bilateral mastectomy were selected.

The same day the surgical stitches were removed, applications of rose hip seed oil started. After washing the zone using tepid water and soap and gently drying, the oil was applied by soft massage. After 12 weeks of applying it twice daily (morning and evening) it was noted that the scars were less apparent, with improved skin elasticity and without lumps; also, the color of the area had improved significantly.

After four months of observations systematically performed after the operations, treating doctors noted that the skin conditions of patients following this skin care routine were improving considerably, allowing implantation of prosthesis or plastic surgery in far better conditions than with patients who had not been treated.

These studies along with years of empirical evidence from indigenous people, have led many to believe in the natural skin care benefits that rose hip oil has. Not only has it been used for scars derived from surgeries, but also for acne scars and stretch marks and other skin blemishes.

Further testing of rose hip oil applications has been carried out by Dr Hans Harbst, surgeon and radiotherapist practicing in Chile. Dr Harbst specializes in radio-oncology, radiology and nuclear medicine at the Nuclear Research Centre of the University of Heidelberg, Germany and is head of Radio-oncology of the Indisa Clinic in Santiago. He is also head of the Department of Radiology of the Chilean Air Force Hospital in Santiago.