Macadamia Oil
Oil from the Australian nut. Uniquely high in omega-7 palmitoleic acid, which naturally declines with age. Absorbs well and works for both skin and hair.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Nourishing oil with a unique lipid profile. No direct RCTs on skin efficacy, but physicochemical data and use experience confirm emollient action.
- Maguire LS et al. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2004;55(3):171-178. PMID 15223592
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry
- Use with caution
- Oily
About this ingredient
Macadamia Oil (Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil) is a cold-pressed plant oil from macadamia nuts. Composition: oleic acid (55–65%), palmitoleic acid (16–22%, a rare omega-7 profile), palmitic (8–9%), linoleic (1–3%). Mechanism. High palmitoleic acid content brings macadamia oil close to the human sebum lipid profile (sebum contains 12–20% palmitoleate). Because of this, it absorbs well, restores the hydrolipid barrier, and leaves no greasy film. Where applied. Creams and serums for dry and mature skin, hair products, massage oils, lip balms. In Spain in Martiderm and Skeyndor lines. Formula concentrations 1–10%, or used neat as a face oil. Evidence base. Few topical clinical RCTs (mostly n<30). The base relies on lipid composition and decades of empirical use. CIR confirmed safety. Safety. Comedogenicity 2 on a 5-point scale – in acne patients it may trigger comedones when applied neat to oily zones. On dry and mature skin the comedogenic risk is minimal. Nut allergy is a contraindication; cross-reactions are theoretically possible. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. A good base for pregnancy massage oil, stretch marks, and nipple cracks (in the absence of nut allergy).
Frequently asked questions
Is Macadamia Oil safe during pregnancy?
Macadamia Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Macadamia Oil for?
Macadamia Oil suits: normal, dry. Use with caution in: oily.
What is Macadamia Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Oil from the Australian nut.
Is Macadamia Oil comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 3/5 – moderate comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Macadamia Oil?
The INCI name is Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil. It may also appear as: Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Macadamia Oil.
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