What Does Marula Do Topically?

What is Marula?

Marula (Sclerocarya birrea) is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to the woodlands and savannas of Southern Africa. It is well-known for its fruit, which contains a hard, nutty kernel from which marula oil is extracted.

Why is Marula Popular Topically?

Marula oil has gained popularity in the beauty and skincare industry for its remarkable nutritional and moisturizing properties. It is well-known by The Ordinary's 100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil. [1]

History of Marula as Facial Oil

The history of Marula oil, particularly as a facial oil, is deeply rooted in the traditional practices of Southern Africa, where the Marula tree (Sclerocarya birrea) originates. Revered for its nutritional and moisturizing properties, Marula oil has been used for centuries by various African cultures not only for its health benefits but also for its significant role in skincare and beauty rituals.

Marula Benefits

1. Rich in Antioxidants and Nutrients: Marula oil is high in antioxidants, including Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Flavonoids, which help protect the skin against environmental stressors and free radical damage. It also contains essential fatty acids, particularly Oleic Acid (Omega-9), which deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin.
2. Moisturizing and Hydrating: The oil is known for its excellent moisturizing properties. Its high content of Oleic Acid makes it particularly beneficial for dry, dehydrated, or mature skin, as it helps to restore and maintain the skin's moisture barrier.
3. Lightweight and Fast-Absorbing: Despite being rich in nutrients, Marula oil has a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. This makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily and combination skins.
4. Improves Skin Elasticity and Firmness: Regular use of Marula oil can improve skin elasticity and firmness, thanks to its antioxidant content and its ability to promote collagen production. This can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
5. Soothing and Healing Properties: Marula oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it effective in soothing irritation, reducing redness, and healing minor skin abrasions. It's also beneficial for conditions like Eczema and Psoriasis.
6. Versatile Beauty Oil: Beyond skincare, Marula oil is used in hair care for its ability to moisturize, strengthen, and add shine to the hair. It can also be used as a nail and cuticle oil.

Marula Side Effects

1. Allergic Reactions: Individuals with nut allergies should be cautious when using Marula oil, as it is derived from the nut of the marula tree. Skin reactions can include redness, itching, swelling, or rashes. Always perform a patch test before incorporating it into your skincare routine, especially if you have known allergies.
2. Skin Sensitivity: While Marula oil is generally considered non-irritating and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, some individuals might experience sensitivity or an adverse reaction. This could manifest as mild irritation or breakouts, particularly for those with very sensitive skin or those not accustomed to oil-based products.
3. Comedogenicity: Marula oil is often touted as non-comedogenic (unlikely to clog pores), but reactions can vary based on individual skin types and the purity of the oil. Those with oily or acne-prone skin should start with small amounts to ensure it does not exacerbate oiliness or lead to breakouts.
4. Quality and Purity: The side effects of Marula oil can also depend on the quality and purity of the product. Oils that are not pure, have been chemically processed, or contain additives may increase the risk of irritation or adverse reactions. Opt for cold-pressed, unrefined Marula oil from reputable sources to minimize potential negative effects.
5. Interaction with Other Products: Marula oil is typically gentle and pairs well with other skincare ingredients. However, when layering products, consider the overall composition of your skincare routine to avoid over-nourishment or interactions that could lead to skin congestion or irritation.

Recommended Use for Each Skin Type.

1. Normal Skin Marula oil can be used as a daily moisturizer for normal skin types to maintain balance and hydration. A few drops can be applied in the morning or evening after cleansing and before applying sunscreen or makeup.
2. Dry Skin For dry skin, Marula oil can be applied both morning and night after water-based treatments and before heavier creams. It can also be mixed with your regular moisturizer to enhance its hydrating effects.
3. Oily Skin Those with oily skin should start with a small amount (1-2 drops) and use it in their evening routine to avoid excess shine during the day. It can be applied after water-based serums and before or in place of a night cream.
4. Combination Skin Apply Marula oil as needed on dry areas, avoiding the T-zone if it's particularly oily. Alternatively, use it as a spot treatment for dry patches or as part of your nighttime routine for overall hydration.
5. Sensitive Skin For sensitive skin, incorporate Marula oil gradually into your routine, starting with a patch test and then applying a few drops as the last step in your skincare routine to soothe and repair the skin barrier.
6. Acne Prone Skin Use sparingly on clean skin, preferably in the evening, to avoid heavy layers. Consider mixing it with a non-comedogenic moisturizer or applying it directly to dry areas or acne scars.
7. Mature Skin Apply Marula oil liberally in both morning and evening skincare routines, focusing on areas prone to wrinkles and dryness. It can be used under sunscreen during the day and as a part of your nighttime regeneration routine.

Synergy with Other Ingredients

1. Hyaluronic Acid Marula oil's deep moisturizing properties complement Hyaluronic acid's ability to attract and retain water in the skin.
2. Vitamin C The antioxidant properties of Marula oil enhance the stability and effectiveness of Vitamin C, providing added protection against free radical damage and environmental stressors.
3. Retinol Marula oil can help mitigate the potential irritation and dryness associated with retinol use, thanks to its soothing and hydrating properties.
4. Niacinamide Combining marula oil with Niacinamide can enhance skin barrier function, as both ingredients work to improve moisture retention and reduce inflammation.
5. Peptides Marula oil can soothe and hydrate the skin, counteracting the drying effects of Salicylic Acid, which exfoliates and clears pores.
6. Ceramides Ceramides strengthen the skin's natural barrier, while Marula oil provides essential fatty acids and antioxidants, enhancing the overall lipid barrier.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations

Marula oil's popularity has led to increased demand, highlighting the importance of sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. Ethically harvested Marula oil ensures fair compensation and working conditions for the local communities involved in its production, and sustainable practices help protect the environment and ensure the longevity of Marula trees.

Finishing up

Marula oil's versatile and nourishing properties make it an excellent carrier oil that synergizes well with various skincare ingredients, enhancing its benefits and addressing a wide range of skin concerns. Personally, I've been attracted of the smell of the oil, and it is gentle even for oily skins.