Why I am Fascinated by Sea Buckthorn Seed Oil

There are very few ingredients that make me stop in my tracks and dive into the research. Sea buckthorn oil is one of them.

As someone with a background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and skincare formulation, I'm naturally drawn to ingredients that have both a compelling scientific story and a practical benefit for the skin. Sea buckthorn checks both boxes. Its vibrant orange color comes from naturally occurring carotenoids, but what's even more interesting is what's inside: a rich blend of antioxidants, vitamin E, phytosterols, and essential fatty acids.

One of the reasons sea buckthorn stands apart from many botanical oils is its omega-7 content. Omega-7, primarily in the form of palmitoleic acid, is a fatty acid that is naturally present in human skin. It's thought to make your skin barrier more resilient, improve hydration, and promote a healthy complexion. As we age, the amount of palmitoleic acid naturally found in our skin decreases, which makes sea buckthorn a particularly intriguing ingredient from a formulator's perspective.

Of course, skincare is rarely about a single "miracle" ingredient. What I appreciate most about sea buckthorn is how thorough the components are. The combination of omega fatty acids alongside antioxidants and skin-supportive nutrients creates an oil that feels remarkably perfect. 

When you find sea buckthorn in one of my products, it's not there because it's trendy. It's there because the science is compelling, the composition is unique, and after years of studying ingredients, it's still one that genuinely excites me. 🧡

Find it in our Squalane and Sea Buckthorn Face Oil and our Firming Body Butter. 

— Chelsea, Founder & Formulator of Okologi Botanik