Kukui Nut Oil

Ingredient name

Kukui nut oil

Type of ingredient

Emollient

Commonly found in

Oils, moisturizers, masks

What are the benefits of kukui nut oil?

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, patients were given kukui oil or a placebo for 12 weeks, with results showing no significant difference in the treatment or the placebo (mineral oil). However, patients who used kukui oil did show improvement in measurable outcomes of psoriasis.

What is kukui nut oil?

Kukui nut oil is a clear oil derived from the kukui nut, and it has been used historically on sunburned or irritated areas of the skin. Based on its high ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids (especially omega-3 fatty acids), It has been thought to have emollient properties that reduce psoriasis symptoms. It has also been reported to treat wounds and burns.

Is kukui nut oil safe for all skin types and tones?

Kukui nut oil is likely safe for all skin types and tones based on available data, though data on this are scarce.

Contraindications

There is minimal data on contraindications for the topical application of kukui nut oil.

Sources

Brown AC, Koett J, Johnson DW, et al. Effectiveness of kukui nut oil as a topical treatment for psoriasis. Int J Dermatol. 2005;44(8):684-687.

Deng S, May BH, Zhang AL, Lu C, Xue CC. Plant extracts for the topical management of psoriasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Dermatol. 2013;169(4):769-782.

Havva Ozge, K. , & Muzeyyen, G. ( 2014). Traditional topical herbal therapies in psoriasis. CellMed, 4 (4) Cellmed Orthocellular Medicinel and Pharmaceutical Association (COMPA).

Author