Since 2016, Neal's Yard Remedies has been working with the local community in Serbia to acquire sustainable rosehips used to make the Wild Rose Collection.
The partnership tends to Rosa canina, which grows wild on the hillsides of rural, southeastern Serbia. During harvest time, from August to October, the accessory fruits are handpicked by the local community surrounding the town of Svrljig.
To ensure a sustainable harvest, only rosehips that grow above 1m in height on established plants are collected, but at least 10% of the fruits are left on the bush.
Separated from the shells, the seeds are cold-pressed which helps to preserve the antioxidant properties of the oil, which is a source of essential fatty acids and vitamins that help keep the skin smooth and radiant.
Historically, ancient Egyptians, Mayans and Native Americans used rosehip seed oil but its skincare benefits are still relevant today.
Based in London, Neal's Yard Remedies incorporates the ethically-sourced organic wild rosehip seed oil in various items.
The Wild Rose AHA Toner also contains exfoliating caviar lime fruit extract and citric acid, as well as hydrating organic aloe vera and glycerine. After applying the toner, the freshened skin can be nourished with certified organic facial oil or beauty serum.
Based on organic cocoa butter, the moisturising Glow Day Cream is enriched with hyaluronic acid, olive leaf extracts, organic grapeseed oil and plant-derived fatty acids.
The Wild Rose skincare routine also tends to delicate peepers with the Eye Brightener featuring light-reflecting mineral pigments, green tea caffeine and hyaluronic acid to address dark circles and puffiness.
