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Ingredient · INCI reference

Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil

Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil is marula oil, a plant oil pressed from marula tree kernels and used in skincare as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent.

What it is

Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, widely known as marula oil, is pressed from the kernels of the marula tree native to southern Africa. It is high in oleic acid and naturally occurring antioxidants, giving it a light, nourishing feel that softens and conditions the skin. It is used as an emollient in moisturizers, oils, and sun care formulas.

Safety & warnings

Marula oil is generally well tolerated and considered low on the comedogenic scale, though as a predominantly oleic-acid oil it may feel heavy or be less suitable for those very prone to congestion. Pure plant oils can rarely cause sensitivity in predisposed individuals.

Origin & sourcing

Plant-derived. It is obtained by cold-pressing or expressing the oil from the seed kernels of the marula tree, Sclerocarya birrea.

Questions everyone asks

Is Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil the same as marula oil?

Yes. Marula oil is the common name for oil pressed from Sclerocarya birrea seed kernels.

What does marula oil do in a formula?

It works as an emollient, softening and conditioning the skin while contributing oleic acid and natural antioxidants.

Sources & references

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