Tamanu Oil 101: Everything You Need to Know

everything you need to know about tamanu oil

If you're a beauty enthusiast or looking to start your skincare journey, chances are high that you've already seen tamanu oil before.

But what exactly is this ingredient?

Well, sit back and relax, as our tamanu oil guide will walk you through all the information you want to know.

What is tamanu oil?

Tamanu oil, also known as Calophyllum inophyllum seed oil, is an oil extract that you can obtain from the kernel of the fruit seeds of the Tamanu Nut tree. Because of its color, many people also refer to it as "green gold".

A game-changing emollient, organic tamanu oil contains a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent called calophyllolide, which has wound healing properties.

According to dermatologist Jessie Cheung, MD, tamanu oil aids cell proliferation and collagen production. Cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson from BeautyStat also adds that this nut oil may have antibacterial and antimicrobial effects.

Is tamanu oil an essential oil?

Contrary to popular belief, tamanu oil is not an essential oil. Instead, it's a carrier oil rich in omega fatty acids and can help hydrate, heal, and strengthen the skin. This means that tamanu oil “carries” the essential oils so that the skin can easily absorb them. While it might not be as well-known as, say, tea tree oil or rosehip oil, tamanu oil has been earning a name lately in the beauty world.

How has tamanu oil been used in history?

Certain cultures in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands have been using tamanu oil medicinally for hundreds of years. In history and anecdotal stories, tamanu oil is said to prevent the growth of tumors in cancer patients.

How do you use tamanu oil?

One of the great things about this fatty nut oil is that it's super versatile.

Because it has cosmetic and health purposes for the skin, you can often find it in numerous face and body oils, moisturizers, and other skincare products.

Many people even use tamanu oil for hair. We especially love to add Tamanu into our hot oil hair and scalp treatment for soft and healthy hair.

Do you have to dilute tamanu oil?

You don't necessarily have to dilute tamanu oil to use it, but it would be best if you do so. According to experts, tamanu oil is very active and potent, which may cause skin irritation or redness when undiluted.

If you do want to use the oil straight off the bat, it's best to start with a few drops on your forearm first and work your way up as your skin gets used to its potency.

Is tamanu oil good for your skin?

Yes. Without a doubt, it’s good for your skin.

In the following sections, we will discuss some of the reasons why and the benefits you can get from using it.

Can you put tamanu oil on your face?

Yes, you can use tamanu oil for your face. In fact, you can apply this oil anywhere on your body, thanks in huge part to its high level of moisturizing fatty acids. Just make sure, though, to apply an amount of tamanu oil that suits your skin type.

Does tamanu oil clog pores?

Tamanu oil has a significantly low comedogenic rating, which means that the possibility of clogged pores are very low. As long as you use it selectively, it should work wonders.

Does tamanu oil brighten skin?

There are no written reports outlining the benefits of tamanu oil on dark spots. But, the substance does contain a healthy amount of antioxidants that are already proven to help whiten skin.

These antioxidants help reduce the damage your skin receives from being exposed to the sun's harmful rays and free radicals. They also keep your skin from getting abnormal skin pigmentations.

Does tamanu oil heal scars?

Numerous studies have proven that tamanu oil can heal wounds and regenerate skin. Apart from the properties we’ve mentioned above, its antioxidants are also beneficial in healing scars and acne. As such, many hospital settings rely on tamanu oil for scars.

How long does tamanu oil take to work?

Tamanu oil typically sinks into your skin in around 10-15 minutes after applying it.

Can you use tamanu oil every day?

Yes you can! Tamanu oil only has natural sun protection, an average of 4.7 SPF protection.

You can also use tamanu oil as your everyday moisturizer. It softens your dry skin all over your face or even your entire body. You can also mix it with makeup for a glowy look.

Is tamanu oil good for all skin types?

If you’re wondering who can use tamanu oil, the good news is: everyone can!

The beauty of this carrier oil is that it suits most skin types. However, we especially recommend it for dry skin, minor acne, and scars.

It's also an excellent option for those looking for oil they can use to fight off premature signs of aging.

Can tamanu oil cause breakouts?

No. On the contrary, tamanu oil helps if you’re battling breakouts because of its antibacterial properties.

Because it has a low comedogenic rate, it has a slight chance that it may block your pores, and may lead to breakouts, we recommend not using tamanu oil if you have cystic acne. However, if you have slight skin blemishes, using a little amount of tamanu oil at night will help to keep your skin clear.

Are there any side effects of using tamanu oil?

One of the tamanu oil side effects you have to understand is that it’s derived from the Tamanu tree seeds, which are part of the nut family.

As such, people with nut allergies should avoid using any products containing this oil.

Additionally, this oil is purely for external use only. Intaking the oil, allowing it to contact your eyes, and using it to treat open wounds are highly discouraged. Tamanu oil is toxic if taken internally, so don’t even think about using it as a food supplement.

Another thing to note is that this oil can also cause skin irritations if you have very sensitive skin. Therefore, it would be best to do a patch test before making this ingredient a consistent part of your skincare routine.

Key takeaway

There are plenty of tamanu oil benefits that make it worth adding to your beauty regimen. How to use it depends on what you need this oil for, but you shouldn’t forget precautions when using it.

If you’re curious about what tamanu oil products to invest in, make your choice from Mahina Beaute’s Devavani Illuminating Face OilRejuvenating Body Oil with OrmusOrmus Lip BalmIntensive Hand + Foot BalmReplenishing Face Lotion“Turn On the Light” Face Serum, and Sacred Rose Serum.


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