What is Rose Hip Seed Oil?

Rose hip seed oil is a rich amber colored oil extracted from the seeds of wild rose-bush (Rosa Canina) which is wild crafted and native to the highland regions of South Africa. It is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 5 meters high, bearing flowers varying from white to deep pink and oval intense red to orange fruits (hip) measuring up to 2 centimeters.

The oil is rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin C, essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid, omega 6 and omega 3. It is known to contain lycopene; an antioxidant that protects the skin from premature ageing and also responsible for the oil's amber color. It is easily absorbed by the skin without leaving a greasy residue, replenishing moisture and creating a protective barrier on the skin hence preventing dehydration of the skin. It can be used by persons of any age, on all skin types, and it has been scientifically proven to have outstanding anti-ageing, skin regeneration and rejuvenation effect due to its high vitamin and essential fatty acids content.

Benefits

Rose hip seed oil is commonly used in its pure form or in skin care products to improve appearance of scars, wrinkles, stretch marks, sun damaged skin, uneven skin tone, pigmentation, discoloration, as well as manage dehydrated or ageing skin and other conditions such as burns, rash, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and roscacea. The vitamins A, C and E helps to delay aging, assists with cell regeneration by promoting collagen and elastin production. This improves skin elasticity and results in a younger looking, smoother and firmer skin. The fatty acids hydrate the skin leaving the skin feeling softer, supple and restoring its natural healthy glow. The oil can be incorporated into any regular lotion, cream or massage oil but it is best used in its undiluted pure form.

How to use

As a facial/skin moisturizer, massage 3 drops of pure rose hip oil into a freshly cleansed skin. It can be used both as a day or night moisturizer.

To manage skin conditions, apply 2 or more drops of pure rose hip oil on the affected area or as required to cover the whole area. It can be gently massaged to absorb if the skin is not very irritated. Use as often as required to keep the area well moisturized all day.

SliceOfNatureRose hip seed oil is 100% cold pressed, virgin and pure making it very safe and effective in preventing and healing damaged skin. The hips are hand-picked by the local people of South Africa hence a source of sustainable economically empowerment for the local communities. Due to its pure form and high concentration of essential fatty acids, Rose hip oil should be stored in cool temperatures and away from direct light to prevent oxidation.

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Aloe Vera gel for hair care regimen

In our previous post, we looked at the benefits of Aloe Vera as natural skin care gel. We now look more deeply at the benefits of this natural gel in hair care and how to incorporate it in your hair care regimen.

Benefits

Ø      Dandruff, seborrhea and psoriasis treatment – Due to its antimicrobial, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera gel is great in relieving and eventual healing from scalp scaling. It soothes the itch and hydrates the sores enabling repair and fast recovery from the damage caused.

Ø      Promoting hair growth - Aloe Vera gel is rich in gibberellins, nutrients and growth hormones that easily penetrate the scalp. These nutrients stimulate the growth of healthy hair cells thereby promoting growth of new and existing hair as well as slowing down or preventing hair loss.

Ø      Nourishing and moisturizing the hair – Aloe vera gel is rich in amino acids, vitamins, niacin and polysaccharides. These nutrients are easily absorbed by the hair and scalp promoting soft, healthy, beautiful and manageable hair.

How to use

If using plain and pure aloe vera gel for shampoo or treatment, it means you might require a lot of it. For these purposes, you can mix it with your regular shampoo or treatment.

Ø      Shampoo – To prepare an aloe vera shampoo, mix 1 part of aloe vera gel with 4 parts shampoo. Shampoo your hair normally with warm water.

Ø      Treatment – Mix 1 part honey, 1 part shea butter and 1 part aloe vera gel. Slightly warm the mixture then massage it in to wet, freshly shampooed hair. It is advisable to shampoo your hair with warm water to open up pores and hair follicles for easier absorption. Wrap your hair with a warm towel for 30 minutes; you can sit it under a hood dryer for 15 minutes. Wash it off with warm water. Your hair will love it.

If you choose to use your regular conditioner, mix 1 part aloe vera gel, 1 part honey and 4 parts regular conditioner. Follow all the other steps as above.

Ø      Leave in conditioner – apply a small amount of aloe vera gel into freshly shampooed hair. Apply on the scalp and on the hair from root to end. Massage it in to distribute it evenly. You can also use a wide-tooth comb to run small amounts through your hair. Style the hair as desired.

Ø      Moisturizing - Rub a small amount of aloe vera gel on your palms and apply to your hair with special attention to dry ends. You can do this two to three times a week and apply to your scalp once a week. Some people report that it also helps to hold their hair in place.

Tip: The skin and scalp absorb 80% of what you put on it. We do recommend purchasing pure natural Aloe vera gel as opposed to purchasing it as a component in shampoos, treatments or conditioners. Organic, pure and unaltered aloe vera gel is safe for all ages and scalp and hair types.

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