What it is
Aleurites Moluccanus Seed Oil, commonly called kukui nut oil, is a light plant oil obtained from the seeds of the candlenut tree native to the Pacific and Southeast Asia. It is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic and linolenic acids, which give it a light, fast-absorbing emollient feel. It is used to condition and soften the skin and is common in body oils and moisturizing formulas.
Safety & warnings
Kukui nut oil is high in unsaturated fatty acids and is generally considered low on the comedogenicity scale, making it suitable for many skin types, though heavily unsaturated oils can oxidize over time. As a tree-nut-derived oil, individuals with nut sensitivities may wish to use caution.
Origin & sourcing
Natural, cold-pressed or expressed from the seeds (nuts) of Aleurites moluccanus, a tree in the Euphorbiaceae family.
History
Kukui nut oil has a long history of use in traditional Hawaiian and Pacific Islander skin and hair care, and the tree's nuts were historically burned as a light source, giving rise to the name candlenut.
Questions everyone asks
What is kukui nut oil good for?
It is a light emollient rich in linoleic and linolenic acids that softens and conditions the skin and absorbs relatively quickly.
Is kukui nut oil heavy or greasy?
It is considered a lighter, fast-absorbing oil and is generally regarded as low on the comedogenicity scale.