Marula fruit and oil, the source of Maru's marula seed oil

African Botanical

Marula Oil

Sclerocarya birrea · INCI: Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil

An antioxidant-rich, deeply nourishing seed oil from the marula tree, known for enhancing skin's natural glow.

What is marula oil?

Marula oil is a light, golden seed oil pressed from the kernels of the marula tree, an indigenous Southern African tree that thrives through long, dry seasons. It has been used for generations across the region to nourish and soften skin.

The oil is rich in oleic acid, typically making up around 70 to 78 percent of its fatty acid profile, alongside naturally occurring antioxidants. This composition gives marula oil a cushioned, fast-absorbing feel that sinks into skin without a heavy residue.

In cosmetic use, marula oil is prized for the way it helps replenish very dry skin while leaving a soft, luminous finish. It is a hero botanical in the Maru range.

Marula Oil benefits for skin

Antioxidant-rich

Contains naturally occurring antioxidants that help protect the look of skin against everyday environmental stress.

Deeply nourishing

High in oleic acid, so it helps replenish and soften dry, depleted skin.

Enhances natural glow

Leaves a soft, luminous finish that supports skin's healthy-looking radiance.

Fast-absorbing

A light, cushioned oil that melts into skin without feeling heavy or greasy.

Comforting on dry skin

Helps soften rough areas and restore a supple, comfortable feel.

Desert provenance

The marula tree grows across the woodlands and semi-arid regions of Southern Africa, including South Africa. It endures months of drought each year, and its kernels are pressed for an oil long valued for skin and hair care.

How Maru uses marula oil

Marula oil is a core botanical in both of our body oils, Desert Rain and Desert Sunrise, where it works alongside baobab, kalahari melon and ximenia to deeply nourish skin and support a healthy glow.

In Desert Rain, marula contributes to a fragrance-free blend suited to dry and sensitive skin. In Desert Sunrise, it sits within a lightly scented, morning-glow formula. Both oils are designed for daily use on the body, absorbing quickly and leaving no greasy residue.

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Marula Oil FAQ

Is marula oil good for dry skin?+

Yes. Marula oil is rich in oleic acid, which helps replenish and soften dry, depleted skin. It absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling comfortable rather than greasy.

Does marula oil clog pores?+

Marula oil is generally considered lightweight and fast-absorbing. As with any oil, skin can respond differently, so we recommend starting with a small amount if you are prone to congestion.

What does marula oil do for the skin?+

Marula oil helps nourish and soften skin while supporting a healthy-looking glow. It is antioxidant-rich and known for its cushioned, comforting feel on dry skin.

Which Maru products contain marula oil?+

Marula oil is a core ingredient in both Maru body oils, Desert Rain and Desert Sunrise, and therefore in The Desert Ritual duo that pairs them.

Not sure which oil is right for you?

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