Formulated for skin prone to redness and sensitivity, this facial oil blends Sea Buckthorn and Tamanu—two time-honored botanical oils known for their calming, conditioning properties. This lightweight yet nourishing oil helps soften skin, retain moisture, and restore comfort to easily stressed complexions, making it a gentle option for rosacea-prone or easily irritated skin.
Good for: Dry, maturing, and easily stressed skin
This nourishing facial oil was created for skin prone to redness, sensitivity, and discomfort. I originally formulated it to help a friend whose skin reacted poorly to traditional products. She needed something gentle, supportive, and free from harsh ingredients—an oil that helped her irritated skin feel calm and comfortable again.
This lightweight blend of unrefined Sea Buckthorn Oil, Tamanu Oil, and Jojoba Oil is designed to soften skin, support the moisture barrier, and help reduce the feeling of dryness and irritation — an approach many people with rosacea-prone or easily irritated skin look for.
Sea Buckthorn Oil is a richly colored, nutrient-dense oil naturally high in essential fatty acids and antioxidant compounds. We use real, unrefined oil—not extracts. Its deep orange color comes from naturally occurring carotenoids and reflects its high concentration. Because it is so potent, a little goes a long way.
Tamanu Oil absorbs readily into the skin and is traditionally used to comfort stressed, fragile-looking skin. Its naturally occurring fatty acids help soften skin and support barrier function, making it especially beneficial for skin that feels sensitive or reactive.
Jojoba Oil closely resembles the natural oils found in healthy skin. This compatibility allows it to absorb easily, help balance the skin’s surface oils, and improve softness without clogging pores. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin and well-suited for maturing or combination skin types.
👉 Learn More: Why Use a Facial Oil
All Natural • Certified Organic • Vegan • Cruelty-Free • Non-GMO
Packaged in a 1 oz recyclable glass bottle with a glass pipette.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
**The deep orange color of sea buckthorn oil can stain skin, clothing, and surfaces. While staining of the skin washes off easily, staining of clothes and linens may be permanent.
For those who have tried facial oils but do not like them, often an incorrect application method is the problem. Since facial oils are very concentrated, a little goes a very long way and less is usually better than more.
If your skin feels oily hours after application, you should reconsider your technique.
Can a face oil replace your moisturizer? For some yes, but for others maybe not. If you have very dry or maturing skin a face oil alone may not contain enough of the "heavier" ingredients found in an organic oil-based moisturizing cream. The two products play different moisturizing roles and support each other.
For my 70 year old facial skin, a face oil alone is enough during summer months but not during the drying winters. If you are going to use both, apply the facial oil first and allow a few minutes for it to absorb before apply your face cream.
The best way to apply facial moisturizers is on freshly cleaned, warm and damp (not wet) skin. Clean skin allows oils to better penetrate deep layers and stop leftover makeup from clogging pores.
Creams and oils work best with a little damp moisture. Facial oils are better able to lock in moisture when the skin is more pliable after a warm wash and damp skin also ensures that the oils spread evenly and absorb effectively into your skin leading to more hydrated, plumper skin.
Note that your skin should not be wet, just a bit moist, or the skin will be unable to hold the oil. Remember that oil and water do not mix!
Again, facial oils are very concentrated, so start slowly. The key is to use them sparingly.
The recommended amount for your décolleté, neck, and face is about 4 to 6 drops. If doing your face only, you need about 2 to 3 drops of oil per treatment. If your skin is extra dry a couple more drops may be helpful. Just don’t overdo it. This might appear to be a very small amount but start out small, you can always add more.
Now that your skin is ready you need to choose an application method.
While many people have their own special technique for applying face oil, here are two favorites. Always be sure that your hands are clean and remember to begin with clean, damp skin.
We suggest applying our facial oil directly to your skin with the dropper. Placing the oils on your hands first will probably give you soft hands, but you want to get the most benefit for face!
While it may be called a facial oil, the sensitive skin on your neck is especially prone to signs of aging or dryness.
Begin with only a drop on each cheek, one drop on your neck, one on your décolleté, and one on your forehead, focusing on problem areas (remember you can always add more if needed).
If you choose to do your face only, place one drop on each cheek and one on your forehead. If you have an oily T-zone, but dry flaky cheeks, limit your facial oil application to dry problem areas only.
Patting the oil onto the skin with your fingertips is often thought to be more effective than rubbing the oils into your skin. Patting can aid in oil absorption and nourish deeper skin layers. But using a gentle "rub" in sections will also work, especially if time is a factor.
EYES: Take extra care around the eye area since rubbing or pulling that delicate skin may help encourage those annoying eye wrinkles. My eye technique:
When applying moisturizer to your neck or décolleté, massage in an upward soft stroking motion, until completely absorbed.
A face oil is a great product to use with facial massage. Using small circular strokes in an upward, outward motion, massage slowly and gently with your oily fingertips until most of the oil has been absorbed. The gentle massage will also give your skin a nice circulation boost and can help with lymphatic drainage.
TIPS:
While your skin is still slightly damp, place a few drops of face oil in the palm of one hand and then warm the oil by gently rubbing the palms of your hands together. Then press both your palms onto your face with firm but gentle pressure and hold for a few seconds. Then gently massage until it feels absorbed. Some believe that this warming process helps to better activate all the goodness in your oil and enhance absorption.
It is usually suggested that a facial oil be used in the morning. If your skin is extra thirsty, apply the face oil and allow a few minutes for it to absorb. Then use your natural cream moisturizer as usual for extra hydration.
There is a debate as to whether you should apply moisturizers at night. You need to pay attention to YOUR skin!
One school of thought is that you should not moisturize at night. While you sleep skin cells are hard at work naturally repairing, regenerating, balancing oil production, and flushing out impurities.
Applying moisturizers may prevent your skin from breathing, interfere with the skin’s natural regenerative activities, and may cause your skin to become dependent on moisturizers.
The other school of thought is that since cell repair and regeneration is higher at night, skin loses more moisture and needs the extra moisture. Also, since the skin’s ability to absorb ingredients peaks at night, your skin may be able to better absorb the nourishing, moisturizing ingredients.
When applying a face oil at night, we recommend applying the oil at least 20 to 30 minutes before going to bed. The oil needs time to soak into your skin, rather than into your pillow.
If you choose to moisturize day and night, a light facial oil may be better than a heavy cream. Just remember that your skin needs time to breathe. Using too much over time can make your skin lazy. Over moisturizing signals your own sebaceous (oil) glands to slow down natural moisture production, which can result in chronic dry skin.
If you have very sensitive skin or are simply trying a new product for the first time, we always recommend doing a patch test.
For external use only. Discontinue use if irritation occurs. Best if used within 6 months of opening.
For more detailed information about face oils please read our blog, "What are Facial Oils and How to Use Them"
Please Note: Our Sea Buckthorn Oil is unrefined and has a strong fruity musky scent that is characteristic of Sea Buckthorn. Tamanu Oil has a rich, deep scent with a bold dark color. Both oils may naturally separate or solidify at cold temperatures. If your oil solidifies, simply place the bottle in some warm water.
**The deep orange color of sea buckthorn oil can stain skin, clothing, and surfaces. While staining of the skin washes off easily staining of clothes and linens may be permanent.
The goal is simple: to Harness the Power & Simplicity of Nature® to cleanse, soothe, heal, and protect your skin and hair!
Our unique formulas rely on moisturizing oils and butters, healing botanicals, and pure essential oils. We choose every ingredient with one end-result in mind….the BEST possible natural skin care for YOU!
Organic Sea Buckthorn Oil
Organic Tamanu Oil
Organic Jojoba Oil
Please Note: Our oils are unrefined and have not been bleached or deodorized. These oils retain their natural scent, color, and nutritional benefits. Sea Buckthorn Oil is has a strong fruity musky scent that is characteristic of Sea Buckthorn. Unrefined Tamanu oil has a rich, deep scent with a bold dark color. Both oils may naturally separate or solidify at cold temperatures. If your oil solidifies, simply place the bottle in some warm water.
**The deep orange color of sea buckthorn oil can stain skin, clothing, and surfaces. While staining of the skin washes off easily staining of clothes and linens may be permanent.
Overall rating: 4.6825395 / 5 from 252 reviews.
This facial oil, formulated with Sea Buckthorn and Tamanu, is praised for its ability to reduce redness and sensitivity. Customers report positive results, including improved skin appearance, reduced breakouts, and enhanced hydration. The natural scent and feel of the oil are also highly appreciated.
Review topics: ["ingredients","results","quality","smells","color","improvement","feels","service","spots","glow","packaging","issues","skin","looks","bottle","price","oil","face","breakouts","lines","scalp","complexion","acne","use","pimples","circles","customer service","difference","weather","bumps"].
"So yes, this does briefly turn pale skin orange. It fades after about an hour but for my uses that means this is a night treatment. I’ve been using this to treat some broken capillaries in my nose that are now mostly healed. For application- do directly to the face over a sink and go very slowly with rubbing in. I found 3 drops enough to cover my entire face."
— Susan (5/5)
"I got this oil because my dermatitis flared from different products and they left my skin irritated and dry. My skin is super sensitive and I haven’t had any reaction to the oils so far like I have in other skincare products. It seems to have helped with the last bit of dry and flaky skin. I did read the other reviews and it does have some pigment so I suggest using only 2-3 drops at night on your face at first. I have olive skin so it gives me a bit of a jaundiced hue but it soaks in within 5-10 minutes. I’ve only been using it for 3 days so I can’t speak to the longevity or results with continued use but so far I’m happy with the results and how my skin feels."
— Samantha o. (4/5)
"Definitely leaves a yellow tint but it's worked well for the irritation I was having from tretinoin. I have brown skin so it actually gives me a nice glow and absorbs quickly."
— Chandni P. (5/5)
"I love this face oil. My rosacea abs redness are calmed. I've had no flare-ups since I started using this product. I put it on before I got to bed. It does make my face a little orange but it eventually gets absorbed. I use white pillow cases and I've had no stains. Please always keep making this stuff!"
— Dawn (5/5)
"I love this oil. I use it on my face every morning. Just a few drops is all it takes so the bottle will last a long time"
— Melanie S. (5/5)
"As warned when reading about the product, the sea buckthorn tamanu will turn you orange if you have fair skin. I wanted to try it as a facial moisturizer but I can't stand the stain. Again, I knew before buying it that it could turn my skin orange so no blame on the company, I'm just not a fan. I am going to try it as a moisturizer on my heels and toes since I'm not as concerned if they turn orange!"
— Krystal L. (2/5)
"I haven’t been using this product long enough but looking forward to great results."
— Natasha F. (5/5)
"I love this very much it keeps my face nicely hydrated."
— SUDHA S. (5/5)
"Everything I’ve purchased from Soap and Salve is wonderful. The shampoo bars leave my hair feeling luxurious. Thanks Soap and Salve for keeping it real."
— Jill M. (5/5)
"The Sea Buckthorn Tamanu oil that I bought from Chagrin Valley 2 years ago had a wonderful strong natural scent to it and helped whenever I had any kind of blemish. Now, it has no scent whatsoever and seems bland. I still use it and it still is ok but just not the same."
— Joyce S. (4/5)
Whether you call them facial oils or facial serums, well-formulated oils made from nourishing, unrefined botanical ingredients play an important role in healthy skin care.
Although oils don’t add water to the skin, they help soften, condition, and support the skin’s natural moisture barrier, which in turn helps skin retain hydration and stay comfortable.
As we age, our skin naturally becomes thinner, produces less oil, and loses some of its ability to hold onto moisture. This can make dryness more noticeable and can exaggerate the appearance of fine lines. Facial oils help reduce moisture loss and support skin suppleness.
Apply facial oil to clean, slightly damp skin. Oils work best when they are applied after cleansing, when there is still water on the skin’s surface. This helps the oil seal in moisture and support the skin barrier. Facial oils can be used alone or layered with another moisturizer, depending on your skin’s needs.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, it may seem counterintuitive to use oil—but the right oils can actually help improve balance. Lightweight, non-comedogenic botanical oils can help soften skin and support the surface barrier, which may reduce the skin’s tendency to overproduce oil.
Using harsh products designed to “dry out” oily skin can strip the skin’s surface, triggering oil glands to produce even more oil. A thoughtfully chosen moisturizer or facial oil helps support balance rather than fight it.
For dry skin, an organic facial oil made with unrefined plant oils creates a breathable barrier that helps slow moisture evaporation. This helps skin feel softer, smoother, and more comfortable throughout the day.
Facial oils are often well-suited for sensitive skin because they are free from the surfactants and alcohols commonly found in many lotions. When skin is adequately supported and moisture loss is reduced, it often feels calmer and less reactive.
As we age, the skin’s natural oil production declines, making moisture loss more noticeable and fine lines more pronounced. A nourishing facial oil helps support the skin barrier, improve softness, and maintain a supple, comfortable feel—especially important for mature skin.
The most beneficial facial oils are made with unrefined, certified organic plant-based oils.
Unrefined oils are typically cold-pressed or expeller-pressed and minimally processed without harsh chemicals or excessive heat. This helps preserve their natural fatty acids and skin-supportive compounds.
USDA Certified Organic oils are produced without synthetic pesticides, preservatives, or additives.
Avoid petroleum-based products containing mineral oil or petrolatum, which coat the skin without providing the same skin-supportive benefits as plant-based oils.
👉 Learn More
What are Natural Face Oils & How to Use Them?
Creating A Facial Skin Care Routine
What Is A Facial Cleansing Oil? How Do I Use It?
We often receive emails and phone calls from customers with chronic irritated or inflamed skin problems.
While we cannot promise that our products will help heal your inflamed or irritated skin conditions, we have received a lot of feedback from customers telling us that our products have helped ease or soothe symptoms associated with irritated skin problems.
We have learned that for some people simply switching to a natural product may help.
We believe that natural ingredients are usually milder and gentler on the skin. I often say that what is NOT in our products, that is often the most helpful.
We have used this feedback to create "Help Me Choose" pages for a variety of skin issues.
Pure essential oils, herbs, and other natural ingredients have been used for centuries. Their folklore and uses have been passed down through generations.
Please note that our products are NOT drugs or medicines meant to treat or cure illness, which would require FDA testing and approval. Our products are intended to help ease symptoms associated with irritated skin. Always consult your health care provider if you are concern about a skin issue.
If you have sensitive skin issues, always try an allergy patch test before using a new product.
If you think about it, your skin type is not even the same for all of the areas of your body.
The skin on your face is different from the skin on your hands, which is different from the skin on your back which is different from the skin on your feet ...etc.
Although your skin type is determined by genetics, it will also be affected by other factors and can change with time.
Understanding your skin type is a good starting point before trying or switching to natural products.
There are typically five types of healthy skin: normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive.
NORMAL SKIN
This skin is balanced, neither too dry nor too oily. It has regular texture, no imperfections and a clean, soft appearance, and does not need special care.
OILY SKIN
Oily skin is the result of excessive secretions of sebum, an oily secretion of the sebaceous glands. Oily skin tends to attract more dirt and dust than dry skin and may be prone to blackheads, acne, and excessive shine. It is frequent in adolescents and often seen with acne or blemish-prone skin.
DRY SKIN
For some people dry skin is caused by external factors such as the weather, low air humidity, sun, or hot showers, and it is often temporary.
However, for others it may be a lifelong condition. Dry skin is a result of a decrease in natural oil production which often results in skin that is flaky and has a rough appearance. Dry, cracked skin is often prone to skin disorders, such as eczema.
SENSITIVE SKIN
Truly sensitive skin easily reacts to external stimuli. The skin is often fragile, thin or fine-textured, dry, and prone to allergic reactions.
Sensitive skin often feels uncomfortable, tight, red or itchy. It is a delicate skin that needs a lot of TLC.
COMBINATION SKIN
Combination skin is just what is sounds like, it has characteristics of both dry and oily skin. The area with more oil is usually the T- zone (forehead, nose, and chin), while the skin on the cheeks is normal or dry.
For more information on skin type and help with product recommendations for your individual needs, please read our blog, What's Your Skin Type?
The most important consideration in any business is its customers. Today's world of misleading claims, false advertising, and simple deception, often leaves consumers trying to discover the truth about personal products and their ingredients.
Some of my favorite products are made with ingredients that just do not exist as certified organic. Why? At this time there are no standards created for ingredients specifically used in the personal care product industry. Organic certification of personal care products is based on the organic food standards set by the National Organic Program of the USDA.
But since we are a certified organic company, we are required to submit documentation that even our "non-organic ingredients" were produced without the use of toxic pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), sewage sludge, or irradiation.
Why Did We Become a Certified Organic Company?
What Do All of the Organic Labels Mean?
Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve has been Leaping Bunny Certified since 2013.
The Leaping Bunny Program was developed in 1996, by The Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics (CCIC), to identify and support companies that are doing their part to help eliminate the unnecessary use and mistreatment of animals to test cosmetic products and ingredients. The CCIC is made up of eight animal protection groups including the Humane Society of the U.S., as well as groups from Canada and Europe.
At Chagrin Valley we do not test our finished products on animals (other than human volunteers). But what about the raw materials, the ingredients we use?
Many products display labels claiming that their finished product is ‘not tested on animals’ but this does not guarantee that the product ingredients are actually free from animal testing.
The CCIC Standard is a pledge that a company makes to remove animal testing from all stages of product development. Our pledge to buy ingredients that are cruelty-free is integrated into the purchase agreement for all of our suppliers.
Personal care products displaying the “real” Leaping Bunny logo are certified ‘cruelty-free' using the internationally recognized Humane Cosmetics Standards. These rigorous standards require that no animal testing is performed or authorized for finished products or any of the ingredients in any stage of product development by the company, its laboratories or its suppliers after a fixed cut-off date. All Leaping Bunny companies are subject to independent audits and pledge commitments that are renewed on an annual basis.
This annual renewal is a key requirement that sets the Leaping Bunny Program apart from other cruelty-free certification programs. Companies that manufacture products, as well as their ingredient suppliers, must annually recommit to upholding their promise to not conduct animal testing on any finished products, ingredients, or formulations.
Why is this annual commitment renewal important? "Because product formulations change, suppliers come and go, and manufacturers develop innovative lines to meet consumer needs. But we know that compassionate consumers need to be confident that no animal testing is involved in the products they use."
At Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve . . .
The Leaping Bunny Program provides
the best assurance to consumers
that they are making compassionate shopping choices
by purchasing Cruelty-Free skin care!
Whether you call them face oils or facial serums, a nourishing organic, unrefined oil can moisturize, soothe and help restore natural balance to facial skin. They are nourishment for beautiful skin.
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Sea buckthorn berry oil is a rare, deeply pigmented plant lipid rich in Omega-7 and complex fatty acids that support the skin barrier. Discover how its whole-plant chemistry aligns with the structure of healthy skin — and why this vibrant oil has earned its reputation.
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