How to Use 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil for Face

By The Ordinary | Clinical Formulations with Integrity | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: How-to Guides

Learn the correct way to apply 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil from The Ordinary for a soft, supple complexion. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes to avoid.

Quick answer

Apply 2–3 drops of 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil as the last step in your nighttime routine, after water-based serums and before moisturizer if your skin is dry.

Why order matters with face oils

Face oils like rose hip seed oil are occlusive—they seal in the layers underneath. If you apply it too early, it can block water-based products from absorbing. That is why this oil always goes last in your routine, just before any heavy cream if you use one.

When to use it: AM vs PM

Rose hip seed oil is fine for both morning and night, but most people prefer it at night because it can leave a slight sheen. If you use it in the morning, wait at least 5 minutes before applying sunscreen so the oil film does not dilute the SPF.

How to apply rose hip seed oil for face

Cleanse and apply water-based treatments: Start with a clean face. Apply any water-based serums or treatments (like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide) first. Let each layer absorb for about 30 seconds. Common mistake: applying oil before water-based products, which prevents absorption of the serums underneath.
Dispense 2–3 drops into your palm: Shake the bottle gently, then drop 2–3 drops onto your fingertip or palm. Warm the oil between your hands for a few seconds. Common mistake: using too many drops. More than 3 drops can feel greasy and may clog pores on oily skin types.
Press and pat onto face and neck: Gently press the oil into your skin—do not rub or drag. Focus on drier areas like cheeks and jawline. Avoid the eye area unless you are using a separate eye oil. Common mistake: rubbing vigorously. Patting helps the oil absorb without disturbing the layers underneath.
Finish with moisturizer (optional): If your skin is very dry, follow with a light moisturizer. If your skin is normal to oily, the oil alone may be enough. Wait 2 minutes before applying sunscreen in the morning. Common mistake: thinking you always need a moisturizer on top. Rose hip oil is occlusive enough for many skin types on its own.

Product facts

100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil: 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil from The Ordinary is a solution for supple skin. This straightforward facial oil is intended to help maintain a soft, comfortable complexion. Because it is a single-ingredient oil with no additives, you can layer it confidently without worrying about interactions with other products.
100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil