By now, you’ve probably heard of kukui nut oil or seen it listed as one of the many ingredients in various beauty products. It’s been touted as being one of the most beneficial oils for the skin (which is true), but you still might be asking exactly what is kukui nut oil?
Well, it’s a natural oil from Hawaii that’s produced by cold pressing oil from the kukui nut tee—scientifically known as Aleurites Moluccans, or the candlenut tree. Though it’s most well-known for how well it moisturizes the skin, for Hawaii and Hawaiians, it holds a greater significance. The tree the oil is derived from is the state tree and has been used in religious ceremonies for years and years. It’s also a symbol of rejuvenation.
Besides the cultural impact kukui nut oil has had on Hawaii, here are the top 6 reasons you need it in your life:
- VITAMINS
It’s also well-known for its vitamins! A, C, and E. These nutrients help moisturize the skin without leaving it greasy. If you’re especially sensitive to greasy products but know the benefits of moisturizing, this is just for you.
- FATTY ACIDS
Kukui nut oil contains healthy fatty acids like linoleic acid and omega-3, which can help calm the skin and reduce inflammation. Due to the blend of rich fatty acids, the oil can easily be absorbed into the skin and help relieve aches and pains from aching muscles and joints too.
- ECZEMA
While it can’t make skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis completely go away, kukui nut oil is great for reducing inflammation and preventing discomfort and itchiness. It you have scaly patches, this would help soothe and smooth the skin out over time.
- DRY SKIN
Keeping dry skin moisturized is difficult and sometimes painful. If your hands are cracked, you may be susceptible to infections, especially if you work with your hands. Applying the oil promotes growth of new skin cells and stronger skin.
- AGING
Aging is unavoidable, kukui nut oil can help you move into aging with grace by applying it to your wrinkles and crow’s feet around your eyes. When applied, the kukui nut oil boosts collagen production and, like noted above, stimulates new skin cell growth. The oil is also perfect for stretch marks—it will minimize their appearance over time.
- IMMUNE SYSTEM
On a daily basis, everyone’s skin is exposed to numerous irritants. If you apply kukui nut oil daily, especially to your hands and feet, you can bolster your immune system to fight infections. This is due to the antioxidants that are great for the immune system.
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If you’re still not totally sold on kukui nut oil and all the benefits, you should give our Kukui Body Lotion and Kukui Lip Treatment a try. You’ll be able to see the benefits for yourself! Our formulas use only 100% pure kukui nut oil from the islands, so you’re getting the best of the best no matter what.
About the Author
Melissa Hedges currently resides in Colorado with her two chihuahua mixes, Pele and Siggi. In her free time, she's scoping out fancy brunch spots, playing with makeup, spoiling her dogs, and co-editing CEO, a literary magazine. Find her on Instagram @hedge
