Should Raspberry Seed Oil Replace your Sunscreen?

Well, no. In fact, the warning on the side of Scrub a lil Deepa's Beauty Seal says just that. However, what raspberry seed oil can do is very impressive.
Red Raspberry  - Raspberry Seed Oil in Scrub a lil Deepa's

Well, no. In fact, the warning on the side of Scrub a lil Deepa's Beauty Seal says just that. However, what raspberry seed oil can do is very impressive.

Red Raspberry  - Raspberry Seed Oil in Scrub a lil Deepa's Beauty Seal

SUN PROTECTION - Research indicates that red raspberry seed oil has the ability to absorb UVB and UVC sun rays, however, its protective capabilities against UVA rays are limited. It is important to note that UVA rays are linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, as well as skin problems such as wrinkles and premature aging.

Quick lesson: UVB rays are more equated to sunburn, while UVA rays go deeper and are more linked to long-term skin effects.  

That might not sound as impressive after the click bate title, however raspberry seed oil is undoubtedly the most powerful natural oil in defending against the sun. 

In fact, it's actually in a league of its own.

According the substantiated research, the nearest oil it terms of sun protection doesn't offer half of what RSO provides.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION - The oil contains antioxidants and essential fatty acids that fight oxidative stress and inflammation (Vitamin E doing work against natural stressors in the environment). 

Raspberry seed oil is beneficial for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis. It is also a good source of vitamin A and vitamin E, which helps encourage skin cell regeneration.

HYDRATION - Raspberry seed oil has high levels of something called phytosterols. What you need to remember is not the word "phy-to-ster-ols" but what that means for your skin! Phytosterols can help to reduce water loss from the skin and promote hydration. Many oils create a barrier to keep moisture in or keep things out, but oils high in phytosterols can really provide a boost to your skincare routine.

DOESN'T CLOG PORES - The way I came across red raspberry seed oil is that it is noncomedogenic, which means it does not clog pores. I soon learned that it contains antioxidants and vitamins A and E that stimulate collagen production and slow down the skin aging process.

As a side note, a oils high in linoleic acid have similar properties.  Many don't clog pores. They also are known to be good for people with oily skin as linoleic acid rebalances the skin's natural oils and reduces acne breakouts.  The combination of these elements allows for all the benefits occlusive oils have to offer to people who may have not considered skin oils an option for them due to oily skin.
To get back to the original topic of the click-batey title (guilty), it is worth mentioning that the cosmetics industry is very focused on sun screen these days. The newest trend is for products that provide continuous cooling while in the sun, achieved through encapsulating technology and various cooling agents.

When it comes to raspberry seed oil, our investigation ended there. There isn't any substantiated evidence that, by itself, raspberry oil is a full spectrum sunscreen-replacement. 

Researchers are exploring plants that have natural protection against UV radiation, and efforts are being made to identify naturally derived sunscreens from herbs.  So, stay tuned!  We will be sure to keep you posted on all the news and updates in the ongoing search for healthier ways to protect your skin.