# Ingredient Spotlight: Marula Oil 101 Those looking for a moisturizing facial oil may be interested in marula oil. It’s rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which are both beneficial for keeping skin healthy. There is no shortage of facial oils in skincare, so why should marula be on your radar? Marula oil is lightweight, making it suitable for people with oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types. You know — those who usually steer clear of facial oils and use predominantly oil-free products. Like other [facial oils](/content/articles/the_10_best_facial_oils_based_on_skin_type/index.html), marula oil is mega moisturizing. It’s also rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which help keep free radicals at bay. According to the [Linus Pauling Institute](https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/essential-fatty-acids#functions), essential fatty acids are crucial for skin function and appearance. If you’re looking for a facial oil to help seal in moisture but worry about feeling greasy or heavy, marula oil may be just what you need. Here’s why. ## What is Marula Oil? Marula oil comes from the marula fruit tree (Sclerocarya birrea), which is a native plant most commonly found in regions of South Africa. Marula trees bear fruit, which each contain a nut. Marula oil is extracted from one of two sources: the marula nut or the seeds of the fruit. Marula oil is mainly derived from the nut of the marula fruit. The current hype surrounding marula oil is related to skincare products, but it’s also used in body care, hair care, fragrance, and even makeup products. In skincare, marula oil is most commonly found in pure facial oils, facial oil blends, moisturizers, facial cleansers, and eye creams. Marula oil has a natural fragrance that is often described as fruity, floral, warm, and nutty. ### Who Should Use Marula Oil? People with all skin types can use and benefit from marula oil. Since it’s lightweight and [non-comedogenic](/content/articles/pore-clogging-comedogenic-ingredients/index.html), meaning it won’t clog your pores, it’s suitable for people with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. ## Skin Benefits of Marula Oil The skin benefits of marula oil mainly relate to its high levels of antioxidants and fatty acids. It’s also an effective moisturizing ingredient. ### Free Radical Fighting Antioxidants Marula oil is a natural source of antioxidants, including vitamins E and C and other phenolic compounds. These fight free radical damage from sources of oxidative stress, such as UV rays and air pollution. Free radicals can cause skin damage and speed up the skin aging process, and antioxidant-rich marula oil can help fend them off. ### Moisturizing Fatty Acids There are eleven fatty acids that are valuable to the body and skin. Of them, two are considered essential because the body can’t produce them on its own. They include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and they are vital for skin health. Omega-9 fatty acids are also important for skin. Marula oil contains some of these omegas in the form of palmitic, stearic, oleic, and myristic acids, which help moisturize the skin. ### Anti-Aging Amino Acids Marula oil is a source of L-arginine and glutamic acid, amino acids that have anti-aging benefits. Arginine helps boost collagen production and speeds up skin cell regeneration. Glutamine has also been shown to [stimulate collagen synthesis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7548230/). ### Antimicrobial Properties The antimicrobial properties of marula oil may suggest that it’s beneficial for acne. It may be effective against the bacteria that causes acne. It’s also a suitable moisturizer for people with acne-prone skin. ## Is Marula Oil Safe? [Marula oil](/content/ingredients/sclerocarya_birrea_marula_oil/index.html) receives a positive safety grade from the Good Face Project. A [2015 study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26528587/) in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology studied the irritancy potential and safety of marula oil and found that marula oil is a non-irritant. Researchers concluded that its use in cosmetics is justified depending on the application. ### Side Effects and Allergies Though marula oil is considered generally safe to use, some people may be at increased risk of allergic reactions. According to [WebMD](https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-marula-oil), anyone who is allergic to fruits or nuts should be cautious when using marula oil since it is derived from the nuts of the marula fruit. Signs of an allergic reaction can include: - Redness - Itchiness - Hives - Swelling If you are concerned about marula oil allergies, consider performing a patch test. Apply a small amount of marula oil on a small patch of skin on your inner forearm. Signs of an allergic reaction could appear within minutes or up to two days, so watch closely. ## How to Use Marula Oil Marula oil can be applied topically to the skin and hair. To incorporate marula oil in your skincare routine, look for a facial oil, serum, moisturizer, or eye cream that contains this antioxidant-rich ingredient. A pure facial oil is a great place to start since it’s likely to be a potent source of marula oil. To use a marula facial oil, apply your other skincare products first. Facial oils should always be applied last in your skincare routine (other than sunscreen) to seal in moisture. A little goes a long way, so you only need a few drops. Warm the marula oil in your palms and apply directly to your face, neck, and chest. Ensure you are using marula oil properly by reading the product instructions carefully. ## FAQ How does marula oil compare to squalane oil? Squalane oil and marula oil are both popular facial oils. They have similar benefits but differ in their consistency. Squalane is a thicker oil with a heavier consistency. It’s often recommended for people with dry skin. Marula oil is more lightweight, so it’s safe for people with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. Both squalane and marula oil are effective moisturizers that are suitable for all skin types. Does marula oil contain vitamin C? Can you apply marula oil under the eyes? #### Sources [Biochimica et Biophysica Acta: "Glutamine increases collagen gene transcription in cultured human fibroblasts"](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7548230/) [Journal of Ethnopharmacology: "Safety and efficacy of Sclerocarya birrea (A.Rich.) Hochst (Marula) oil: A clinical perspective"](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26528587/) [Linus Pauling Institute: “Essential Fatty Acids and Skin Health”](https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/essential-fatty-acids#functions) [WebMD: “Health Benefits of Marula Oil"](https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-marula-oil)