According to the National Eczema Association, eczema is one of the most common skin conditions in the United States. More than 30 million people have been affected by some variation. There are a number of different types, including:

Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. There’s currently no cure, but symptoms can be manageable if the proper steps are taken.

Symptoms for atopic dermatitis include:

  • itchiness
  • dry, rough, or scaly skin
  • swollen, inflamed, or red skin
  • crusting or weeping (oozing) rash

According to a 2017 article in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, plant oils have a number of benefits and have been used by doctors, especially dermatologists, for many years.

When applied to the skin, plant oils help retain moisture by acting as a layer of protection that prevents water and other oils from escaping your body.

This journal article also indicates that several types of oils can provide this type of protection. Many of them, however, only stay on the surface of the skin and don’t provide deep penetration to the other upper layers. These oils including:

  • jojoba oil
  • soybean oil
  • avocado oil
  • almond oil

Essential oil or fixed oil

Plant oils can be categorized as either an essential oil or a fixed oil. Essential oils are much more potent and can severely irritate your skin if not diluted or used correctly.

In most cases, fixed oils can be used without being diluted. They’re made up of a number of fatty acids, waxes, phospholipids, and more, which can affect different aspects of your skin in a variety of ways.

Rosehip oil, also known as rosehip seed oil, is a type of fixed oil. It’s taken from the seeds of the dog rose plant (Rosa canina L.). According to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, there are multiple ways to extract this oil, but cold-pressing is the preferred technique. Cold-pressing doesn’t involve heat or other chemicals that could change the chemical makeup of the oil.

Rosehip oil contains a high number of antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids. These ingredients help make it an effective topical treatment for skin conditions like eczema. Studies have shown that rosehip oil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, which offer benefits such as smoother, more elastic skin.

Treating atopic dermatitis with rosehip oil is straightforward. Use the rosehip oil as you would a regular moisturizer. One recommended method is to bathe or shower briefly in warm water twice a day. After gently patting yourself dry, apply the oil to the affected area.

Is rosehip oil the same as rose oil?

Rosehip oil is much different from rose oil. Rose oil is an essential oil, which requires dilution. Rosehip oil is a fixed oil, which means that it doesn’t require dilution.

Risks

Plant oils can have a range of effects on your skin based on the composition of both the oil and your skin. Although rosehip oil is generally considered safe for topical use, those with very sensitive skin or plant allergies may risk increased irritation or an allergic reaction.

Before treating your eczema with rosehip seed oil, understand your eczema triggers. Learning what irritates your skin and causes a reaction is crucial for managing eczema. This knowledge can help you determine what medications or alternative treatment options are best for you.

Speak with your doctor or dermatologist before starting any at-home treatments so they can provide guidance specific to you and your current health conditions.