Tamanu Oil: The Green Gold for Skin Healing

When it comes to natural skincare powerhouses, Tamanu Oil (INCI: Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil) is a remarkable and often underrated ingredient. Known as the “green gold” of the Pacific, Tamanu oil is revered for its profound healing properties, making it a must-have for anyone interested in formulating effective, natural skincare products.

What Is Tamanu Oil?

Tamanu oil is a thick, dark green oil cold-pressed from the nuts of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree, native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Traditionally used by Polynesians for its regenerative and anti-inflammatory effects, it has become increasingly popular in the cosmetic world for treating various skin issues.

Chemical Composition

Tamanu oil is rich in:

• Calophyllolide – a natural anti-inflammatory molecule
• Delta-tocotrienol – a potent form of Vitamin E
• Oleic Acid (30-40%) – provides deep nourishment and enhances penetration
• Linoleic Acid (30-35%) – supports skin barrier and acne-prone skin
• Stearic & Palmitic Acids – provide occlusive, softening properties
• Lactone compounds – offer natural antimicrobial activity

Top Skin Benefits of Tamanu Oil

1. Powerful Skin Regenerator

Tamanu oil is highly effective in promoting the formation of new skin tissue (cicatrization), which makes it excellent for:

• Scars and stretch marks
• Wound healing
• Post-acne marks

2. Natural Anti-Inflammatory

Thanks to calophyllolide, it reduces inflammation and soothes irritated skin. It can help with:

• Eczema and psoriasis
• Rosacea
• Redness or swelling

3. Acne-Fighting & Antibacterial

Its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties help inhibit Propionibacterium acnes, making it useful in formulations for:

• Oily, blemish-prone skin
• Spot treatments
• Healing acne scars

4. Moisturizing and Nourishing

Tamanu oil deeply moisturizes without clogging pores. Its fatty acid profile helps restore the skin’s hydrolipidic film, ideal for:

• Dry, flaky skin
• Cracked skin (heels, elbows)
• Wind- or sun-damaged skin

5. Antioxidant Protection

Rich in tocotrienols, it protects against oxidative stress and premature aging, making it ideal in:

• Anti-aging serums
• Night balms
• Eye treatments

How to Use Tamanu Oil in Skincare Formulation

• Facial Serums & Oils: Use at 5–10% for acne-prone or scarred skin.
• Balms & Salves: Blend with beeswax and other oils for soothing balms.
• Creams & Lotions: Add to the oil phase at 2–8% to boost healing.
• Spot Treatment: Apply neat to scars or blemishes, unless sensitive.

Who Should Avoid It?

Because it’s derived from a nut, those with tree nut allergies should avoid it or patch-test carefully. It also has a strong earthy aroma, which may not be suitable for all facial products unless blended with other oils or essential oils.

Final Thoughts

Tamanu oil is a truly multifunctional, therapeutic ingredient for natural skincare. Whether you’re looking to target scars, soothe inflammation, or simply nourish dry skin, Tamanu oil offers results that both traditional medicine and modern science support. It’s a brilliant addition to your formulation toolkit for creating targeted, effective, and natural skincare solutions.

Cheers,

La Mayca x