For beauty enthusiasts, marula oil is a well-known secret weapon for nurturing both hair and skin. But what exactly is this miracle elixir, and how does it distinguish itself from other popular oils like jojoba or coconut?
Marula oil, as described by Hadley King, MD, is derived from the kernels and outer husk of the marula fruit native to South Africa. It stands out as a lightweight, rapidly absorbed oil packed with potent soothing and healing components, making it a must-have ingredient in your beauty regimen.
Benefits of Marula Oil for Skin
According to Dr. Zeichner, marula oil is a treasure trove of rich, emollient fatty acids and antioxidants that soothe and shield the skin. “The emollient properties of this oil soften the skin’s surface and fill in cracks in the barrier, hydrating and protecting it,” he explains. “The antioxidants counteract free radical damage, offering protection against environmental aggressors. This makes it a valuable ingredient for brightening uneven skin tone and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
Dr. Chiu concurs, highlighting that marula oil is non-comedogenic and can effectively alleviate irritation while enhancing skin radiance.
How to Use Marula Oil on Skin?
Incorporating marula oil into your skincare routine is a breeze, whether used alone or in conjunction with other products. Dr. Chiu advises, “Marula oil can be blended with other skincare products such as serums, moisturizers, or facial oils, complementing them seamlessly.” However, she cautions against mixing marula oil with potent acids like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), as this may diminish their efficacy.
After cleansing and toning, Dr. Chiu suggests applying a few drops of marula oil and gently massaging it into your face and neck, suitable for both morning and evening use. “There’s no wrong way to use it, but it’s best applied as one of the final steps in a multi-step skincare routine to lock in moisture,” she advises.
When it comes to favored products, Dr. Chiu recommends The Ordinary 100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil, while Dr. Zeichner is partial to the Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil, citing its lightweight formula rich in omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids for hydration and skin barrier protection.
Benefits of Marula Oil for Hair
Beyond skin care, marula oil offers a multitude of benefits for hair, as outlined by Dr. Chiu:
- Deep conditioning and hydration, reducing frizz and enhancing shine.
- Protection against heat damage from styling tools.
- Nourishment for dry and damaged hair.
- Efficacy in addressing scalp conditions such as dandruff.
How to Use Marula Oil on Hair?
Incorporating marula oil into your hair routine is straightforward. Dr. Chiu recommends applying a few drops to damp or dry hair, emphasizing the importance of starting with a small amount and adjusting based on hair texture and needs. “You can use it before or after styling, or even as an overnight treatment,” she suggests. “There’s no incorrect way to use it.”
For targeted treatment, Dr. King advises applying marula oil to the hair ends to combat dryness and prevent split ends. It can also address dandruff concerns when massaged into the scalp or serve as a heat protectant when applied to damp strands before styling.
As for product choices, there’s a wide array available. Dr. King suggests using shampoos infused with marula oil or adding a few drops of pure, cold-pressed marula oil to your preferred shampoo or as a pre-shampoo treatment. She particularly favors the OGX Hydrate + Marula Oil Serum Elixir for a luxurious treatment. Dr. Chiu’s go-to hair elixir recommendation is the Vegamour HYDR-8 Hydrate and Repair Conditioner for Dry, Damaged Hair.
While marula oil is generally suitable for most hair types, individuals with very fine hair should exercise caution to prevent it from weighing down their strands when used excessively. Additionally, those with nut allergies should be mindful when using marula oil, as it is derived from marula nut kernels. Apart from these considerations, marula oil offers a plethora of benefits with minimal downsides.
