Let’s Talk Ingredients: Marula Oil
Marula oil has been used for centuries in Africa for its moisturizing and healing properties. The oil is extracted from the kernels of the marula fruit. It is packed with antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamins that work together to nourish and hydrate the skin.
What is Marula Oil?
Marula oil is derived from the nuts of the marula fruit, a tree native to southern Africa. The oil is pressed from the nuts through a process that helps to preserve the oil’s natural nutrients and antioxidants. This oil is similar in composition to baobab, olive, and palm oil (Vermaak et al., 2011).
Benefits of Marula Oil
Moisturizes and hydrates the skin - Marula oil penetrates the skin, providing deep hydration due to the fatty acid content without leaving an oily, greasy residue.
Protects against environmental stressors - The antioxidants in marula oil can help to protect the skin from environmental stressors such as free radicals, pollution, and UV radiation (Vermaak et al., 2011). When the skin barrier is damaged, it becomes more sensitive to environmental elements.
Improves skin texture and tone - The essential fatty acids in marula oil help to improve skin texture and tone, leaving the skin looking smoother and more even. Our goal is to strengthen the skin with barrier repair ingredients.
Soothes and calms the skin - The anti-inflammatory properties in marula oil can help to soothe and calm the skin, making it ideal for those with dry, sensitive, or irritated skin. Topical products can help comfort the skin, but it is crucial to understand why the skin is inflamed or irritated to eliminate the inflammation.
Consumers are increasingly interested in the benefits of seed oils due to the natural product and eco-friendly movement; however, more research is needed to better understand the safety and anti-aging properties of marula oil. Understand that the application of some oils to the skin may cause blackheads.
Found in the following products:
Naturium’s Virgin Marula Face Oil
Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Face Oil
Reference:
Vermaak, I., Kamatou, G.P.P., Komane-Mofokeng, B., Viljoen, A.M., & Beckett. K. (2011). African seed oils of commercial importance — Cosmetic applications. South African Journal of Botany, 77(4), 920-933. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2011.07.003.