Is Marula Oil the Latest Must-Have Addition for Your Hair and Skin Routines?

When it comes to the beauty world, there are tons of hair care and skin care products to swoon over. However, not all of these products are formulated with ingredients that can address both your hair care and skin care concerns. So, when you find an ingredient that can possibly do both, like marula oil, you naturally want all the deets! While you’re likely already balancing a few buzz-worthy products in your beauty arsenal, marula oil could make a great addition to your hair care and face care routine. Not familiar with the purported wonders of marula oil? Keep reading to learn all about marula oil and how it can benefit the look of your hair and skin.

WHAT IS MARULA OIL?

According to a National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) study, marula oil is also known as sclerocarya birrea oil. The oil is native to South Africa and, more specifically, to the Zulu people. Research from the Food Reviews International shares that the seed from the marula fruit tree has a soft white kernel rich in oil and protein. Known for being rich in fatty acids, including myristic and stearic acids, the kernel protein contains amino acids with a predominance of glutamic acid and arginine. The NCBI also shares that marula oil is a non-irritant that has moisturizing, hydrating, antioxidant, and occlusive properties. That’s probably why this buzzy ingredient has been seen in beauty products like moisturizers and hair masks.

WHAT CAN MARULA OIL DO FOR HAIR?

The NCBI shares that in most South African countries, oil from the marula oil kernel has been formulated into shampoo for dry, damaged, and fragile hair. Recognized for its hydrating and occlusive properties, this oil helps prevent water loss and nourishes your strands. Further, the Food Reviews International study notes that marula oil is deeply rich in protein and is easily absorbed to provide your hair with effortless moisture and hydration. It also helps to moisturize from root to tip without making it overly greasy.

HOW TO ADD MARULA TO YOUR HAIR CARE ROUTINE

Think your strands can benefit from this popular ingredient? Below, find three ways to incorporate it into your hair care routine.

1. TRY A MARULA OIL SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Using the right shampoo and conditioner can definitely take your hair game to new heights. And we suggest reaching for a product duo formulated with marula oil for a deeply hydrating and soothing experience. Grab the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Frizz-Defy Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Frizz-Defy Conditioner, both of which are formulated with marula oil for a rejuvenating, frizz-fighting hair care experience.

2. USE A MARULA OIL HAIR SERUM

Serums aren’t reserved solely for your skin. Treating your hair to hydration is never a bad idea, and a marula oil hair serum is perfect for offering your tresses the nourishment they need.

3. REACH FOR A HAIR MASK WITH MARULA OIL

One of the best ways to show your thirsty mane some love is by adding a hair mask to your hair care routine. Use a hair mask formulated with marula oil for smooth and manageable strands.

WHAT CAN MARULA OIL DO FOR SKIN?

Beyond how it can help hydrate your hair, marula oil also has emollient and moisturizing properties that benefit the skin. In fact, the NCBI study shares that when marula oil was applied to dry skin, it helped prevent transepidermal water loss and helped with moisture retention to boost skin with hydration.

The NCBI shares that because of its occlusive properties, which allow marula oil to form a barrier between the environment and the skin to minimize moisture loss, it’s a great anti-aging ingredient. Further, the fatty acids present in marula oil are very similar to the natural fats present in the epidermis (the top layer of skin), making it easy for the skin to absorb the oil. 

One last thing, the Food Reviews International Study notes that marula oil also has antimicrobial properties that may be effective against acne-causing bacteria.

HOW TO ADD MARULA OIL TO YOUR FACE CARE ROUTINE

Ready to introduce your face to marula oil? Read on to learn how to add this must-have oil to your routine.

1. PICK UP A MARULA OIL-INFUSED FACIAL OIL

Facial oils are always a great idea, and that holds true if you can get your hands on one formulated with marula oil. The perfect way to boost your skin with nourishment, you can try using a marula oil-infused face oil to give yourself a facial massage.

2. USE A MARULA OIL FACIAL MOISTURIZER

There is no better way to give your skin the TLC that it needs than with a hydrating moisturizer. And with marula oil added to the formulation, hydrated will be the new state of your skin.

3. TRY A MARULA OIL FACIAL CLEANSER

A popular way to give marula oil a try is via a facial cleanser. After all, who would object to hydrating their skin in the very first step of their skin care routine? Start out strong, then you can always follow with other products formulated with marula oil.

Next: How to Apply Facial Oil