Make Room For Marula Oil In Your Beauty Routine

From coconut and jojoba to argan and rosehip, oils have long played a role in our beauty routines. They add moisture, smooth frizz, protect skin, and deliver a glow from within. Yet, while each has unique properties, many now feel a little overused or deliver results that don’t always meet expectations. Add to that the fact that we’re all becoming more ingredient-savvy — demanding not only performance but also ethical and sustainable sourcing — and it’s clear we’re ready for a better alternative. Enter marula oil, a nutrient-rich botanical powerhouse that ticks all the right boxes.

So, what is marula oil? Often referred to as the “elixir of youth” in its native Africa, marula oil is cold-pressed from the kernels of the marula fruit. Light, fast-absorbing, and non-comedogenic, it suits all hair and skin types — even oily or acne-prone. And marula oil benefits are impressive.

Marula oil contains 60% more antioxidants than argan oil. These powerful defenders protect both skin and hair from environmental stressors like pollution and UV exposure. On skin, this helps slow visible ageing. On hair, it preserves colour, prevents breakage, and reduces dullness.

Some sources also claim marula oil has four times the vitamin C of an orange. Vitamin C is a collagen booster and brightener, improving skin elasticity and tone. For hair, it supports scalp health, encourages stronger growth, and helps shield strands from oxidative stress. Marula oil also boasts more polyphenols than green tea — plant-based compounds that fight free radicals, stimulate cell renewal, and reduce inflammation. On the scalp, they help soothe irritation, reduce flakiness, and promote stronger, shinier hair.

For the skin, marula oil delivers intense hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. Its high oleic acid content nourishes and strengthens the skin barrier, while antioxidants reduce the visible signs of ageing. Whether used as a daily moisturiser or a night treatment, it restores radiance and resilience.

When it comes to marula oil for hair, it's a game changer — especially for dry, damaged, colour-treated, or curly types. It reduces frizz, boosts shine, improves elasticity, and protects against heat and environmental stressors. And because it’s so lightweight, it won’t weigh down fine hair.

Of course, with all natural ingredients, the benefits to our bodies must be balanced with their impact on others — and on the planet. At Moo & Yoo, my haircare brand, we use only ethically sourced, cold-pressed marula oil, harvested by women’s co-operatives in Africa. These co-operatives provide stable employment, fair wages, and long-term community investment, making it one of the most ethical oils available. As a B Corp certified company, responsible sourcing is something we value deeply. My advice: always dig into the supply chain of the marula oil products you buy, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

And now I'll leave you on this note: marula oil isn’t just another trend. It’s a beauty essential backed by science, sustainability, and centuries of tradition. If you’re looking to simplify your routine while elevating your results, this multi-tasking oil is the one to watch. Your skin, your hair, and your conscience will thank you.