Marula Oil

INCI: Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil
Also known as: African marula
EmollientsemollientbotanicalAnecdotal evidencePregnancy safe
75
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
2/5
Irritancy
0/5
Best applied
Both
Effective range
1%–100%
How It Works

An oleic-acid-rich African botanical oil with high oxidative stability. Marketed as a luxury 'dry oil' for hydration and glow.

Oleic acid penetrates barrier readily; tocopherols and phytosterols provide antioxidant action.

pH Range
5.0–7.0
Benefits
  • Lightweight glow
  • Antioxidant
  • Stable
  • Non-greasy
Proven For

What the evidence supports.

DrynessLoss of luminosity
Best For
  • All skin types
Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order
7/10

Later treatment or moisturiser step.

Max Safe Concentration
100%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 1%–100%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Marula fruit is consumed traditionally in Southern Africa.

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Higher oleic acid % means slightly higher comedogenicity for very oily skin.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Marula Oil.

3 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Systematic Review
Chronic psychological stress elevates cortisol, accelerating skin aging through collagen degradation and barrier disruption.
Chen Y, Lyga J
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014
View Study →
Randomized Controlled Trial
Nano-hyaluronic acid significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity after 8 weeks.
Jegasothy SM, Zabolotniaia V, Bielfeldt S
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
View Study →
Randomized Controlled Trial
Ceramide-dominant emollients improved skin barrier function by 63% within 6 weeks.
Draelos ZD, Ertel K, Berge C
Cutis, 2006
View Study →
Pairs Well With
SqualaneVitamin E
Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility

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