Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil—commonly known as raspberry seed oil—is a cold-pressed, nutrient-rich botanical oil known for its ability to nourish, soothe, and fortify sensitive and stressed skin. Extracted from the tiny seeds of red raspberries, this oil is high in essential fatty acids (particularly linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids), phytosterols, and tocopherols. Its light texture, non-comedogenic nature, and antioxidant potency make it a valuable addition to any formulation targeting barrier repair, inflammation reduction, and oxidative protection.
In Terra, raspberry seed oil plays a multifunctional role—hydrating the skin, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and enhancing lipid replenishment while delivering natural antioxidant defense to preserve barrier integrity.
What Is Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil?
Raspberry seed oil is a cold-pressed lipid extracted from the seeds of Rubus idaeus, typically through solvent-free, low-heat methods to preserve its bioactive components. It contains:
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Linoleic acid (omega-6) ~48–55%
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Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) ~28–35%
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Oleic acid (omega-9) ~12–16%
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Tocopherols (vitamin E compounds)
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Phytosterols (primarily beta-sitosterol)
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Polyphenols and ellagitannins (plant antioxidants)
This unique profile gives raspberry seed oil the rare ability to combine deep nourishment with a dry, non-greasy finish—ideal for sensitive or barrier-impaired skin.
Skin Benefits of Raspberry Seed Oil
1. Barrier Lipid Restoration
Its high linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid content mimics the skin’s natural lipid matrix. These fatty acids replenish missing lipids in the stratum corneum, improve moisture retention, and enhance elasticity.
2. Antioxidant and Photoprotective Effects
Raspberry seed oil contains significant levels of gamma- and delta-tocopherols, which act as potent lipid-soluble antioxidants. These help reduce oxidative stress and prevent lipid peroxidation, a major contributor to skin aging and barrier breakdown.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Support
Phytosterols and polyphenols in the oil modulate inflammatory pathways, reduce skin reactivity, and calm redness—essential for sensitive or damaged skin.
4. Lightweight Moisturization
Despite being an oil, it absorbs quickly and does not clog pores. This makes it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and oily skin seeking barrier repair.
Mechanisms of Action
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Lipid Matrix Reinforcement: Linoleic and ALA integrate into the intercellular lipid bilayers, supporting ceramide synthesis and restoring cohesion.
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Free Radical Neutralization: Tocopherols and polyphenols interrupt oxidative chain reactions and protect skin lipids from UV- and pollution-induced peroxidation.
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Anti-Inflammatory Pathway Modulation: Sterols reduce inflammatory cytokine expression (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α) and inhibit COX-2 activation.
Role in Terra (Barrier Repair Serum)
In Terra, Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil is strategically included to support:
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Ceramide NP, by replenishing complementary lipids to fill gaps in the barrier
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Opuntia Ficus Indica Seed Oil and Seabuckthorn Extract, by enhancing fatty acid diversity and antioxidant layering
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Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, by reducing TEWL and improving the retention of humectant-based hydration
It provides a crucial bridge between the water-based hydration elements of Terra and its lipid-repairing components, ensuring comprehensive support for a compromised or sensitive skin barrier.
In Terra, our ceramide-rich barrier repair serum, raspberry seed oil is paired with plant-based lipids and humectants to create a soothing, replenishing routine for sensitive and dehydrated skin.
Explore Terra — Ceramide Barrier Repair Serum with Raspberry Seed Oil
Scientific Support and Clinical Research
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A study in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (2014) highlighted raspberry seed oil’s high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidant tocopherols, confirming its role in lipid replenishment and oxidative protection.
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In vitro tests have shown the oil’s ability to reduce oxidative stress markers in keratinocytes exposed to UVB radiation.
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Its phytosterol content has been studied for its ability to reduce trans-epidermal water loss and improve barrier integrity in dermatological formulations.
Safety and Skin Compatibility
Raspberry seed oil is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic. It is suitable for:
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Dry, flaking, or rough-textured skin
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Rosacea-prone or barrier-impaired skin
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Sensitive, allergy-prone users seeking fragrance-free hydration
It is also compatible with other barrier-repair and antioxidant actives, making it a flexible carrier in multi-functional skincare.
Connection to Terra’s Claims
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Barrier Repair: Provides essential fatty acids that mimic skin’s natural lipid components.
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Antioxidants: High in tocopherols and polyphenols, protecting skin from oxidative degradation.
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Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) Support: Reduces TEWL, improving water retention from humectants like sodium polyglutamate.
Key Takeaways
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Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil is a dry-touch botanical oil rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants.
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In Terra, it helps rebuild the skin’s lipid barrier, prevent TEWL, and reduce inflammation.
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Its high linoleic and ALA content, combined with tocopherols and phytosterols, make it ideal for restoring compromised, sensitive, or aging skin.
References
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Parry, J., Su, L., Moore, J., et al. (2005). Fatty acid composition and antioxidant properties of cold-pressed raspberry seed oil. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 53(4), 1480–1483.
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Oomah, B. D., Ladet, S., Godfrey, D. V., & Liang, J. (2000). Characteristics of raspberry seed oil. Food Chemistry, 69(2), 187–193.
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CIR Expert Panel. (2018). Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil as Used in Cosmetics. Cosmetic Ingredient Review.
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Draelos, Z. D. (2011). Skin barrier repair and antioxidant therapy. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 4(9), 22–26.
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Thring, T. S., Hili, P., & Naughton, D. P. (2011). Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of raspberry extracts. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 5(1), 158–164.