Marula Oil
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Anti-aging, moisturizer
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Serums, creams
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MARULA OIL?
Marula oil has occlusive properties that prevent loss of water from the skin and exerts moisture-retentive properties. It has been shown to inhibit the activity of elastase and collagenase, which prevents the normal acceleration of skin aging.
WHAT IS MARULA OIL?
Marula oil is an extract from the Sclerocarya birrea nut made of multiple mixed fatty acids. These fatty acids have anti-aging, moisturizing and hydrating effects, performed in part by inhibition of enzymes that would normally degrade proteins in the extracellular matrix.
IS MARULA OIL SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Marula oil is likely safe for all skin types and tones based on available data. It has been reported to be non-irritating, so it is unlikely to cause reactions in patients; however, patients with previous reactions to this extract should be cautious with use.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
There is minimal data on contraindications for the topical application of marula oil.
Sources:
Komane B, Vermaak I, Summers B, Viljoen A. Safety and efficacy of Sclerocarya birrea (A.Rich.) Hochst (Marula) oil: A clinical perspective. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;176:327-335. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2015.10.037
Shoko T, Maharaj VJ, Naidoo D, et al. Anti-aging potential of extracts from Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich.) Hochst and its chemical profiling by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2018;18(1):54. Published 2018 Feb 7. doi:10.1186/s12906-018-2112-1
