6 Reasons You Should Add Marula Oil To Your Skin, Hair & Nail Routine, Stat

You've probably seen marula oil in luxury facial hydrators; that's because this oil, just like the others, is rich in moisture. It's also rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and antimicrobial properties that make it a solution for a variety of beauty concerns. Ahead, find six ways to add marula oil into your hair, skin, and nail routine, stat. 

Marula oil is the oil that’s extracted from the kernels of the fruits of the marula tree (official name is Sclerocarya birrea), a botanical plant grown in various locations in Africa including South Africa. The fleshy parts of the fruit are edible and actually high in vitamin C. Marula oil is known to be light, fast absorbing and high in antioxidants. It is most commonly used in cosmetics, although it can be used in cooking and household uses as well. 

Thanks to its high nutrient content, the oil has several benefits for the skin according to research1. It’s no wonder that it has so many uses in beauty (which we’ll get to in a second). Here, a rundown of why this botanical oil is so great for skin.

Given how beneficial the nutrient profile is, it's no wonder there's so many uses! Here, how you can use marula oil in your routine:

"It's rich in fatty acids that mimic those naturally found in the outer layer of our skin," says board-certified dermatologist Deanne Mraz Robinson, M.D., FAAD. "Having a healthy skin barrier supports supple, hydrated skin that keeps pathogens out and locks appropriate levels of moisture in."

If you have fine hair, try adding the oil to your ends first to ensure your hair doesn't get weighed down. 

In addition, research has shown it has the ability to protect elastin against enzymes that break it down.

Robinson suggests using marula oil as a cuticle oil to keep them moisturized.

"Vitamin C blocks the production of excess melanin, which helps to brighten dark spots," Zeichner says.

The oil itself is lightweight and absorbs into the skin quickly. But it is important to note that marula oil is comedogenic, meaning it has a tendency to block pores, so it's not the best option for severe acne-prone skin. 

Just be sure to choose an all-natural formula without fragrances and additives to avoid further irritation. 

The oil itself is considered comedogenic, so you may want to avoid using it in its pure form if you deal with clogged pores. However, when combined with other oils and extracts, it may not be considered pore-clogging, so you don’t have to avoid it altogether.  

In terms of all the natural oils, consider marula oil another versatile option to add to your beauty routine. And with a super moisturizing yet lightweight consistency, it feels downright luxurious no matter where you apply it—be it on your skin or through your strands. Still want to browse more options before committing? The good news is that It's not the only high-quality, non-comedogenic oil available.