So you’re in the middle of Sephora, staring blankly at all the face and hair oils like eeny, meeny, miny…which one do you choose? If you’re looking for something that packs a one-two (-three) punch, reach for marula oil. It’s a hydrating powerhouse that makes for enviable skin, hair and nails. Here’s everything you need to know.
What is marula oil?
This super-hydrating and fast-absorbing oil is made from the fruit of the African marula tree. It won’t clog pores and is pretty much the non-oiliest oil ever, as it doesn’t leave skin or hair greasy. (Score!)
What are the benefits of using marula oil?
It’s rich in essential fatty acids like omega-6 and omega-9, which mimic the natural oils your body creates. Since the molecules are much smaller than other hydrating oils, it absorbs deeper and quicker to help fight aging skin and increase hair elasticity. And thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it can even help to clear breakouts and slow down the overproduction of oil for fewer blemishes over time.
How do you use marula oil?
For hydrating skin: Try applying two to three drops of pure marula oil onto your face immediately following cleansing. Because the oil absorbs into skin so well, it helps anything you put on top of it (like moisturizers or eye cream) to sink in better. It also protects against environmental stressors—hello, sun, wind and pollution—so slather it on in the morning to fight like a champ.
For smoothing hair: On damp hair, apply two to six drops (depending on how thin or coarse your strands are), starting at the ends and working your way up toward the scalp. It will seal and coat your hair cuticles to protect against frizz and sun damage, all without weighing down even the thinnest locks.
For treating brittle nails: Try massaging a drop or two of marula oil into your nail beds and cuticles. Because of its small molecule makeup, it penetrates the skin quicker to moisturize and strengthen without leaving behind a greasy residue.
