100% Organic Virgin Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil
100% Organic Virgin Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil
Product Description
Product overview
A 100% pure, sustainably-sourced, organic and unrefined sea-buckthorn fruit oil rich in rare Omega-7 (palmitoleic acid) that deeply nourishes, hydrates, and protects your skin's moisture barrier while delivering powerful antioxidant benefits for a radiant, healthy-looking complexion.
Rare Omega-7 Powerhouse
Contains high concentrations of palmitoleic acid (Omega-7), a rare fatty acid that supports skin barrier function and promotes healing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYRare Omega-7 Powerhouse
Contains high concentrations of palmitoleic acid (Omega-7), a rare fatty acid that supports skin barrier function and promotes healing.
Antioxidant Protection
Rich in Vitamin E (tocopherols), carotenoids, beta-carotene, and lycopene to protect against free radical damage and oxidative stress.
Deep Nourishment
Multiple fatty acids including linoleic, oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids work together to deeply hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier.
100% Pure & Organic
Sustainably-sourced, unrefined virgin oil retains maximum nutrients. No additives, fillers, or synthetic ingredients.
Safety & compatibility
SAFELimited clinical data available. Generally considered safe for topical use, but consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or nursing.
NOT safe for fungal acne. Contains oleic acid (~17%) and palmitic acid (~35%) which can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen the condition.
Rated 1-2 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types when used in small amounts.
Intense orange-red color will temporarily stain skin and permanently stain fabrics. Best used at night; allow full absorption before contact with bedding.
Can be used with retinol products. Apply retinol first, wait for absorption, then apply this oil to help buffer and add hydration.
Safe to use with Vitamin C serums. Apply water-based Vitamin C first, then follow with this oil to seal in benefits.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPalmitoleic Acid (Omega-7) ~35%Proven
A rare omega fatty acid naturally found in human skin sebum. Supports skin barrier integrity, promotes wound healing, and helps maintain skin elasticity. Sea buckthorn is one of the richest plant sources of this beneficial fatty acid.
- Research: Studies show palmitoleic acid supports tissue regeneration and has anti-inflammatory properties
- Function: Mimics skin's natural lipids to strengthen barrier function
- Benefit: Helps repair damaged, dry, or mature skin
Beta-Carotene & Carotenoids HighProven
Powerful antioxidants responsible for the oil's vibrant orange color. Convert to Vitamin A in the skin to support cell renewal and provide protection against environmental damage.
- Research: Carotenoids have been shown to protect against UV-induced oxidative stress
- Function: Precursor to Vitamin A; potent free radical scavenger
- Benefit: Brightens complexion and supports anti-aging
Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) ~30-34%Proven
An essential fatty acid that the body cannot produce on its own. Critical for maintaining the skin barrier and regulating sebum production. Particularly beneficial for acne-prone and oily skin types.
- Research: Studies show acne-prone skin tends to be deficient in linoleic acid
- Function: Strengthens skin barrier; helps regulate oil production
- Benefit: Balances moisture levels without heaviness
Tocopherols (Vitamin E) PresentProven
Natural antioxidant that protects skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage. Also helps stabilize the oil and extend shelf life while providing moisturizing benefits.
- Research: Vitamin E is well-documented for its skin-protective and healing properties
- Function: Neutralizes free radicals; supports skin healing
- Benefit: Anti-aging and protective benefits
1 ingredient
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil (Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last step of your evening routine. Can be mixed with moisturizer to reduce intensity. Best used at night due to orange color.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart with Clean, Slightly Damp Skin
Complete your cleansing routine and apply any water-based products (toner, essence, serum) first. Face can be slightly damp for better absorption.
Dispense 1-2 Drops Only
This oil is highly concentrated - a little goes a long way. Use the dropper to place 1-2 drops in your palm. More is not better and may increase staining.
Option A: Apply Directly or Mix
Either warm between palms and press into skin, OR mix with your moisturizer for easier application and to reduce the orange tint.
Allow Time to Absorb
Wait 5-10 minutes before lying down or touching fabrics. The orange color will absorb into skin and fade - do not rinse off.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or mature skin
- Your skin barrier is damaged or compromised
- You want antioxidant protection against environmental stressors
- You're looking for a natural, organic facial oil
- You want to boost radiance and improve dull complexion
- You're comfortable using the product primarily at night
- You want to support skin healing and regeneration
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne or Malassezia-related conditions
- You need a product for daytime use under makeup
- You're concerned about orange staining on skin or fabrics
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing textures
- You're very sensitive to natural scents
- You want a multi-ingredient blend rather than single oil
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice. Rich fatty acid content deeply nourishes and helps repair the moisture barrier. Use 2-3 drops for maximum benefit.
Excellent for aging concerns. High antioxidant content fights free radicals while omega fatty acids support skin elasticity.
Works well for maintenance and protection. Use 1 drop mixed with moisturizer for balanced nourishment without heaviness.
Good for dry areas; use sparingly on T-zone. Linoleic acid content helps balance oil production. Apply to dry zones only if concerned.
May feel too rich for very oily skin. If using, apply only 1 drop at night. Consider lighter alternatives like rosehip or squalane.
Generally well-tolerated due to single-ingredient formula. Patch test first. The natural scent may bother some sensitive individuals.
Low comedogenic rating (1-2) but contains oleic acid. May work for some; patch test carefully. NOT for fungal acne.
NOT recommended. Contains oleic and palmitic fatty acids that feed Malassezia yeast. Choose MCT oil or squalane instead.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Immediate Hydration & Softness
Skin feels immediately more nourished and supple. May notice a subtle glow and improved texture. Initial adjustment to orange tint.
85% noticed immediate hydration boostImproved Skin Barrier
Skin barrier strengthens with consistent use. Less dryness and tightness. Skin feels more resilient to environmental stressors.
70% reported improved skin barrierRadiance & Complexion Improvement
Noticeable improvement in skin radiance and overall complexion. Fine lines may appear softened. Skin tone looks more even and healthy.
65% saw improved radianceLong-Term Anti-Aging Benefits
Continued use supports skin elasticity and helps protect against premature aging. Best results with consistent nightly application.
60% reported anti-aging benefitsRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 100% pure, organic, single-ingredient formula
- Rich in rare Omega-7 fatty acid
- Delivers noticeable glow and radiance
- Excellent for dry and mature skin
- Powerful antioxidant protection
- Affordable for pure organic oil
- Sustainably sourced and cruelty-free
- A little goes a long way
Criticized
- Intense orange color stains skin and fabrics
- Strong natural earthy scent
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Takes time to absorb fully
- Best reserved for nighttime use only
- Small bottle size (30ml)
- May be too rich for oily skin
- Product discontinued in some regions
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES100% pure cold-pressed sea buckthorn seed oil (vs fruit oil). Slightly lighter color. Similar omega profile but seed oil absorbs faster. Larger 30ml bottle at lower price.
Same brand, similar benefits but lighter texture. No orange staining. Contains natural Vitamin A. Better for acne scars and daytime use. Less Omega-7 but more Vitamin A.
Premium Himalayan-sourced seed oil. USDA Organic certified. CO2 extracted for higher purity. Similar omega content. Slightly higher price point but larger 30ml size.
Blend containing sea buckthorn and rosehip. No staining issues. Luxurious texture. Higher price but multi-ingredient benefits. More user-friendly formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Sibu Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Pure oils oxidize over time, so use within one year for best results.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Refrigeration can extend freshness but is not required.
UV-protective amber glass bottle with dropper. Designed to protect the oil from light degradation and oxidation.
Yes - 30ml is under 100ml limit for carry-on. Keep tightly sealed to prevent leaks. Store upright.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThere is limited clinical research on topical sea buckthorn oil use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While it is generally considered safe for topical use (it contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients), we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or nursing. Some studies suggest it may be safely used topically, but it's always best to err on the side of caution.
No, this product is NOT safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). Sea buckthorn fruit oil contains oleic acid (~17%) and palmitic acid (~35%), which are fatty acids with carbon chain lengths (C11-C24) that feed the Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like MCT oil (C8/C10 only), squalane, or mineral oil instead.
Yes, you can use this oil with active ingredients. For retinol: apply retinol first, wait for absorption (about 20 minutes), then apply the sea buckthorn oil to help buffer and add hydration. For Vitamin C: apply your water-based Vitamin C serum first, then follow with the oil to seal in benefits. For AHA/BHA: use acids first on cleansed skin, wait for them to absorb, then apply the oil as a final step to prevent moisture loss. The oil works well as a protective, occlusive layer over actives.
This oil is BEST for dry, dehydrated, and mature skin types. The rich fatty acid content provides deep nourishment and barrier repair. It also works well for normal skin and can help combination skin when applied to dry areas only. It may be too rich for very oily skin. It is NOT recommended for those with fungal acne or Malassezia-related conditions due to its oleic and palmitic acid content.
You'll notice immediate hydration and softness after the first application. Improved skin barrier function typically develops within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Visible improvement in radiance and complexion generally appears around weeks 4-8. Long-term anti-aging benefits require continued use of 8+ weeks. Results vary based on individual skin type and concerns.
Apply this oil as the LAST step of your evening skincare routine, after all water-based products (toner, essence, serum) and moisturizer. Oils create an occlusive barrier, so they should go on top to seal everything in. You can also mix 1-2 drops with your moisturizer for easier application. Due to its orange color, it's best used at night rather than in the morning.
Sea buckthorn oil has a LOW comedogenic rating of 1-2 out of 5, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores for most people. However, everyone's skin is different. The oil contains a good balance of linoleic acid (which can help regulate sebum) and oleic acid. If you're acne-prone, start with just 1 drop and patch test before full face application. Note: low comedogenic rating does not mean it's safe for fungal acne.
The oil should be used within 12 months (PAO 12M) after opening for optimal freshness and efficacy. Pure oils can oxidize over time, which may reduce their effectiveness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maximize shelf life. The UV-protective packaging helps, but refrigeration can further extend freshness. Signs of rancidity include changes in smell or color - if this occurs, discontinue use.
No, the orange color will NOT permanently stain your skin. The temporary orange tint comes from natural carotenoids (beta-carotene) and will absorb into your skin and fade within a few hours. However, it CAN permanently stain light-colored fabrics, bedding, and towels. Tips: use only 1-2 drops, allow 5-10 minutes for absorption before touching fabrics, use darker towels/pillowcases, and consider mixing with moisturizer to dilute the color.
This product is FRUIT (berry pulp) oil, not seed oil. Fruit oil has a deeper red-orange color, higher concentrations of omega-7 (palmitoleic acid), more carotenoids, and a richer texture. Seed oil is lighter yellow, absorbs faster, and has different fatty acid ratios with more omega-3 and omega-6. Both are beneficial but serve slightly different purposes. Fruit oil is better for intense nourishment; seed oil is lighter and absorbs quicker.
Verdict: The Ordinary 100% Organic Virgin Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil is an excellent choice for those with dry, mature, or compromised skin barriers seeking deep nourishment and antioxidant protection. Its rare Omega-7 content and pure, single-ingredient formula deliver impressive hydrating and radiance-boosting results. However, the intense orange color that stains fabrics, strong natural scent, and unsuitability for fungal acne may limit its appeal for some users. Best used as a nighttime treatment by those who don't mind the staining trade-off for the powerful skin benefits. A unique and effective oil at an affordable price point for what you get.
Browse related
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil
Skin Protecting
|
|