Seabuckthorn is not just a fruit with high therapeutic and nutritional properties; it is also employed as an active ingredient in the skincare industry worldwide. We already know its crucial role in combating conditions like high cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation, and maintaining hormonal balance.
Seabuckthorn is infused with the richness of a range of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, making it a promising natural remedy for skin repair. There are several scientific studies that support the potential benefits of it in wound healing, skin hydration, and protection against environmental damage.
Nutritional Profile for Skin Health
It is a powerhouse of compounds that support skin health, such as:
- High levels of essential fatty acids such as omega-3, omega-6, omega-7, and omega-9 help maintain the skin’s lipid barrier.
- Richness of vitamin C boosts collagen, and vitamin E acts as a potent antioxidant.
- Presence of flavonoids and polyphenols provides anti-inflammatory and protective effects against oxidative stress.
- Beta-carotene in seabuckthorn enhances skin cell regeneration and repair.
Impact of Seabuckthorn on Skin Barrier Repair
The skin barrier is the outermost layer of skin, also called the stratum corneum. It mainly comprises ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, which protect against water loss and external irritants. It contributes to its restoration in several ways:
Strengthening the Skin Barrier
It is one of the richest natural sources of palmitoleic acid, omega-7. This rare fatty acid is crucial in maintaining skin hydration and elasticity. Studies suggest that topical and oral supplementation with omega-7 can improve moisture retention by reinforcing the skin’s lipid layer. It also reduces transepidermal water loss, preventing dryness and irritation.
Accelerating Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration
Several studies show that its oil promotes wound healing as it has the properties to:
- Stimulate keratinocyte proliferation that is essential for epidermal renewal.
- Enhance collagen synthesis and repair damaged skin.
- Exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce infection risk in wounds.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are the primary agents that contribute to skin barrier dysfunction, leading to conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and premature ageing. Seabuckthorn prevents these conditions as it:
- Contains flavonoids and vitamin E, which combat oxidative damage.
- Has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in studies, reducing skin redness and irritation.
Clinical Applications of Seabuckthorn in Dermatology
Seabuckthorn for Dry and Atopic Skin
Clinical trials have investigated seabuckthorn’s role in treating dry skin and eczema. A study by Gu et al. provides evidence of the impact of seabuckthorn oil on skin barrier repair. The study established that the presence of essential fatty acids in its oil and its anti-inflammatory properties contribute to restoring the skin barrier. While the evidence is undoubtedly encouraging, further research is needed to compare topical application effectiveness versus seabuckthorn oil’s oral supplementation in atopic dermatitis treatment.
Potential for Acne and Sensitive Skin
Naringenin, found in seabuckthorn, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential, making it a promising natural remedy for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It helps reduce sebum oxidation, a significant factor in acne development, and soothes irritated, inflamed skin, making it suitable for conditions like rosacea.
Sun Protection and UV Damage Repair
Ultraviolet-B irradiation causes oxidative stress and inflammation-mediated skin photodamage. The study published in the “Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B” proves that Naringenin, a naturally occurring flavonoid in seabuckthorn, prevents ultraviolet (UV)-B radiation-induced skin damage.
Moreover, seabuckthorn contains high carotenoid levels and vitamin C, which help neutralize free radicals caused by UV exposure and promote DNA repair in skin cells. Its nutritional value is not limited only to medicinal and dietary uses; it is also extended to the skin care industry. Seabuckthorn skin care is popular in the market for its visible positive impact on the skin. Several scientific researchers back this claim that seabuckthorn is a powerful natural remedy for skin barrier repair, offering hydration, protection, and healing benefits. It could be applied topically or orally to maintain a strong and resilient skin barrier.
