Sclerocarya birrea (Marula) kernel oil

Sclerocarya birrea (Marula) kernel oil 1
Sclerocarya birrea (Marula) kernel oil 2
Sclerocarya birrea (Marula) kernel oil 3
Sclerocarya birrea (Marula) kernel oil 4
AKA: Marula kernel oil
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
African Botanical
Not Clean
Sclerocarya birrea (marula) kernel oil is a cosmetic ingredient.
Family
Anacardiaceae (Cashew family)
Plant Part
Kernel
Lifeform
Tree
Climate
Seasonally dry tropical
Form
Oil
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Used for centuries by indigenous peoples of southern Africa in traditional skincare and healing practices. The oil was traditionally applied to skin and hair for nourishment and protection.
EWG
4
CIR
Insufficient
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USAunder review
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Jun 2026
Data: Kew POWO · CosIng · EWG · CIR