Plant Extracts

Hippophae Rhamnoides Extract

INCI: HIPPOPHAE RHAMNOIDES EXTRACT

Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

A plant extract rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, traditionally used to support skin hydration

Best For Skin Types

All, Dry, Sensitive, Mature

Addresses

Dryness, Hydration, Barrier repair, Sensitivity

Effective Concentrations

0.5–5%

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Hippophae Rhamnoides Extract?

Hippophae rhamnoides extract comes from sea buckthorn, a hardy plant native to coastal and mountainous regions across Europe and Asia. The extract is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), vitamins, and antioxidant compounds that make it a functional ingredient in skincare formulations.

In cosmetics, this extract primarily serves as a skin conditioner, helping to improve the skin's moisture content and overall condition. It is found in relatively few skincare products, making it a less common botanical ingredient in mainstream formulations.

How It Works

The extract's high concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids works to reduce water loss from the skin's surface. Research suggests it may also upregulate aquaporins (water channel proteins) and hyaluronan synthase expression in skin cells, which are involved in natural moisture regulation and hydration pathways within the skin.

The antioxidant compounds in sea buckthorn extract help counteract oxidative stress, which is accelerated by sun exposure. By reducing reactive oxygen species, the ingredient may help protect skin from photoaging effects, though more robust clinical evidence in this area would strengthen current understanding.

Clinical Evidence & References

A controlled study of a 5% Hippophae rhamnoides emulsion applied over 84 days showed measurable improvements in skin hydration and reduction in transepidermal water loss in healthy male subjects. These findings suggest the ingredient has practical benefits for barrier support when used consistently.

Laboratory research indicates the extract can upregulate genes involved in skin hydration (aquaporins 3 and hyaluronan synthase 2) in cultured human skin cells, which aligns with its traditional use for dryness. However, evidence remains limited to small-scale and in vitro studies; more extensive clinical trials would help establish its efficacy more robustly across different skin types and conditions.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically incorporated into creams and emulsions rather than serums or lightweight formulations. It works well as part of a regular skincare routine for dry or dehydrated skin. There is no evidence suggesting a need for cycling or intermittent use, so daily application is appropriate for most users seeking hydration benefits.

Safety & Precautions

Hippophae rhamnoides extract is generally well-tolerated in skincare formulations. Those with known sensitivities to plant extracts should patch test first, though allergic reactions are uncommon.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Part of a family

Hippophae Rhamnoides Extract is a variant of Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Juice, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.

A nutrient-rich fruit juice with antioxidant compounds to support skin conditioning

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