Surprising Skincare Secret: The Oil of Macadamia Nuts
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You may be aware that Macadamia nuts are a nutritious nut to eat. But, did you know that the oil they contain is quite remarkable, with some unique compounds that make it a beneficial ingredient in skincare products?
Hydrating
This luxurious oil contains higher levels of palmitoleic acid than any other plant oil, roughly 22 percent. Palmitoleic acid is naturally found in human sebum, the body’s natural skin oil. However, levels of palmitoleic acid in sebum drop off significantly as we age. Although considered good for all skin types, this makes macadamia nut oil a particularly beneficial ingredient for dry, aging skin types.
Healing
Macadamia nut oil is known to be healing to the skin. It’s naturally high in vitamin A and vitamin E, two vitamins that are known for their ability to heal and regenerate the skin. The French use macadamia nut oil to treat sunburned skin. It’s also thought to be useful for the treatment of scars and minor skin irritations.
Stability
Macadamia nut oil contains low levels of poly-unsaturated fatty acids, making it is much more stable than most other vegetable oils. The oil’s vitamin E content also contributes to its long shelf life.
Uses
Macadamia nut oil is known to absorb quickly into the skin, leaving a light, velvety, protective barrier on the skin. It makes a wonderful “carrier oil” for aromatherapy uses. Macadamia nut oil also has a low level of oral toxicity, making it a useful ingredient in lip and baby care products.
You can find macadamia nut oil in natural skin care, hair care and bath products. You can also purchase the pure oil and use it for home beauty treatments. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
- Nail Care Heat some oil in a microwave safe bowl, stopping to check the temperature every 10 -15 seconds. Gently massage the oil into your cuticles.
- Hair Care Heat the oil according to the instructions above. Massage into dry hair and scalp. Cover with a warm towel or heat cap for 20 minutes. Shampoo twice and follow with a light conditioner. Do this once a week to maintain healthy glowing hair.
- Body Care Rub a few drops of macadamia nut oil onto damp skin after your bath or shower. Add some essential oils to your macadamia nut oil to use for aromatherapy massage. Try lavender, rosewood or chamomile for a calming effect. Peppermint, eucalyptus and basil are good oils to try for a more stimulating massage.
- Facial Care After thoroughly cleansing and exfoliating your skin, apply a few drops of macadamia nut oil to your neck and throat using light upward strokes. Leave on overnight.
Storage
Macadamia nut oil it best stored in a cool dark place. For optimal freshness, use within 5 months of opening. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a year. When chilled, macadamia nut oil will become cloudy, but this will not harm it in any way.
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