Cosmeceutical Applications of Sea Buckthorn: Skin Regeneration, Anti-Pigmentation, and Anti-Acne Effects

The sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) fruit has gained a lot of importance as a botanical cosmetic ingredient for its nutrients and bioactive compounds in the cosmeceutical industry. This review makes a systematic investigation into the scientific basis of the uses of sea buckthorn on dermatological health, focusing particularly on skin regeneration, anti-pigmentation and anti-acne effects. Rich in more than 190 bioactive compounds, rare omega-7 fatty acids (palmitoleic acid), vitamins (A, C, E, K), carotenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols this natural wonder evens skin tone and reduces pigmentation. Available evidence indicates that sea buckthorn extracts and oils have wound healing effects (enhancing collagen synthesis), tyrosinase inhibiting activity and can act against bacteria causing acne. Human studies have confirmed increase in skin moisture, elasticity and softness after sea buckthorn consumption. The present review combines and discusses recent findings, mechanisms of action, formulation difficulties as well as prospects for improving the clinical use of sea buckthorn in the cosmeceutical field.