Raspberry & Cranberry Oils: Nature’s Skincare Powerhouses
Skincare oils serve as vital emollients, hydrating the skin while forming a protective barrier that locks in moisture. Each oil carries a unique profile of nutrients, vitamins, essential fatty acids, and phytonutrients, making them powerful tools for addressing specific skin concerns and overall skin health.
To repair and maintain the lipid barrier—the outermost layer of your skin—it’s crucial to understand the specific characteristics of the oils you use. This includes their antioxidant levels, anti-inflammatory properties, and comedogenic rating (their tendency to clog pores).
Antioxidants: The Skin's Natural Defense
Antioxidants are critical for healthy, resilient, and radiant skin. Oxidative stress—a leading cause of skin aging—is triggered by factors such as exposure to sunlight, pollutants, environmental aggressors, and even diet. Oils rich in antioxidants shield the skin from this damage, promote collagen production, brighten skin tone, and reduce inflammation. Raspberry and cranberry seed oils excel in this area, offering high levels of tocopherols (Vitamin E) and carotenoids, which are known for their ability to neutralize free radicals effectively.
Common Skincare Oils Ranked by Nutrient Content
| Oil | Vitamin E |
Omega-6 (%) | Omega-3 (%) | Beta-Carotene* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry | 3017 | 53% | 32% | 23 |
| Cranberry | 1956 | 38% | 33% | |
| Rosehip | 910 | 25% | 0% | |
| Sunflower | 700 | 45% | 1% | |
| Almond | 460 | 0% | 0% | |
| Plum | 430 | 28% | 0% | 16 |
| Olive | 175 | 32% | 0% | |
| Argan | 90 | 49% | 28% | 0–1.5 |
| Coconut | 40 | 15% | 0% | |
| Jojoba | ? | 2% | 0% |
*Beta-Carotene values are approximate.
Essential Fatty Acids: Nourishment for Skin Health
The foundation of skincare oils lies in their fatty acid composition. The best oils are rich in essential fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6, which the body cannot produce on its own but are vital for skin regeneration and barrier function. These fatty acids nourish and strengthen the skin, helping to soothe dryness, calm inflammation, and promote a smooth, healthy complexion.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats, which are superior to saturated fats for skincare because they are more easily absorbed by the skin and provide greater benefits in reducing inflammation and supporting the lipid barrier. Raspberry seed oil, for instance, is a remarkable source of linoleic acid (Omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (Omega-3), which contribute to its reputation as a lightweight, non-greasy oil suitable for a range of skin types.
Raspberry & Cranberry Oils: A Superior Choice
Compared to common skincare oils, raspberry and cranberry seed oils stand out due to their balanced blend of essential fatty acids, high antioxidant content, and non-comedogenic nature. They deliver nourishment without clogging pores, making them ideal for sensitive, acne-prone, or mature skin. Their anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce redness and irritation, offering relief for conditions such as eczema and rosacea.
OUR oils are unrefined, cold-pressed, and minimally processed, ensuring their nutrient profiles remain intact. Many oils found on the market are refined using methods like bentonite clay processing, an organic-approved technique for mass-market preparation. While refining can remove undesirable qualities, it also significantly reduces the Vitamin E and carotenoid content due to the heat applied in many refining processes. By keeping our oils unrefined, we preserve their natural potency and effectiveness, aligning with a clean, eco-conscious skincare approach.
These oils embody nature’s ability to restore and protect the skin, making them a superior choice for those seeking a natural yet powerful addition to their skincare routine.