Small But Mighty: Sea Buckthorn Delivers Antioxidant and Hydrating Power

A petite, juicy, bright orange berry that grows in clusters along the water, sea buckthorn is a prized skincare ingredient heralded for its antioxidants and omega fatty acids. 

We use this beloved, sustainably sourced oil in our MINERALIST Lip Gloss-Balm, and it’s also a hero in our new MINERALIST Eyeshadow Palettes.

To help you better understand all its skincare benefits (yes, even in our makeup!), we’re doing a deep dive into this natural ingredient, complete with dermatologist insight. 

What is Sea Buckthorn Oil?

Though you might assume the sea buckthorn plant grows in the sea itself, it actually gets its name because it grows near the sea. The bulk of sea buckthorn is found in China, Mongolia, Russia, Europe, Ukraine and Canada, where it thrives particularly well in wet environments. 

“Sea buckthorn is a plant of the Elaeagnaceae family, and is used in various areas of medicine for its potent medicinal and healing properties,” notes Dr. Stefani Kappel, a board-certified dermatologist based in Corona Del Mar, CA. “The leaves, flowers, seeds and fruits are used for active ingredients and contain actives including antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.”

Skincare Benefits of Sea Buckthorn Oil 

While the sea buckthorn plant has traditionally been used in naturopathic medicine to treat common issues such as inflammation, colds, and coughs, this cheery orange berry also boasts some notable skincare benefits. 

Antioxidant Hero 

“The skin benefits of sea buckthorn oil are related to the levels of folate, biotin, vitamins B1, B6, C, and E,” notes Dr. Kappel. “The vitamins and antioxidants act as free radical scavengers to bind up damaging free radicals that can cause premature aging and skin cancer.”

If you’re not familiar with free radicals, these are unpaired oxygen atoms that can ultimately wreak havoc on your skin and cause signs of premature aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration and laxity. Think of antioxidants as tiny warriors on your skin, battling free radicals and thereby reducing oxidation. 

Hydration Powerhouse 

“The essential fatty acids in sea buckthorn oil serve as a humectant, adding hydration to the skin by minimizing trans epidermal water loss and by reinforcing the skins natural barrier,” explains Dr. Kappel. 

In other words, this hydrating oil can help skin look and feel softer, plumper and more radiant by locking in moisture. 

Our Best Sea Buckthorn-Infused Skincare and Beauty Products 

Eager to see why sea buckthorn oil is worth celebrating for yourself? You can start with our MINERALIST Lip Gloss-Balm, where cold-pressed sea buckthorn oil shines as a hero ingredient. 

Available in 15 beautiful shades ranging from barely-there pink to vibrant blackberry, this clean, vegan formula adds sheer color and glossy shine to your pout — minus the stickiness. It’s not just pretty though — clinical studies found that MINERALIST Lip Gloss-Balm delivered up to 50% smoother lips in a week.* The gloss-balms also help lips feel softer and more hydrated both instantly and over time. 

Another place you’ll find sea buckthorn oil is in our brand new MINERALIST Eyeshadow Palettes. Whether you’re seeking a minimalistic, dreamy wash of color across your lid or are setting out to create a diffused smoky eye, you’ll love the creamy consistency that allows for buildable color, easy layering, and effortless blending. You’ll also feel good (and ultimately look good) knowing these eyeshadows are working overtime for you to condition this delicate skin.

The sea buckthorn berry might be small, but it is a mighty ingredient that can benefit your skin in several important ways. Our formulas have harnessed their power to help you look and feel your best. 

*Based on a 1-week clinical study with 30 people. Results may vary.

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