Kukui nut oil is a semi-clear to light yellow oil that is cold pressed from seeds of the Aleurites moluccans tree, often referred to as the candlenut tree. The State Tree of Hawaii, it also grows in other areas of Polynesia. Kukui seeds have traditionally been used for a variety of purposes. Seeds themselves were often strung and lit on fire to use as torches, and oil pressed from the seeds was used in lamps. The oil has been mixed with soot to produce a type of paint, and another process turned it into an ingredient that aided the drying ability of paints and varnishes. Uncooked seeds are somewhat toxic, but Hawaiians have roasted the kernels and mixed them with seaweed to make a peanut-like condiment.

Glowing Skin

Kukui nut oil penetrates the skin easily and leaves the skin feeling silky and smooth. Kukui nut oil does not leave the skin feeling greasy. This oil contains vitamins A, C, and E, which are antioxidants known to protect the skin and prevent free-radical damage to the skin cells. Kukui nut oil can leave even the driest, dullest, aging skin looking healthy and radiant. Kukui nut oil also works well as an under eye treatment for the prevention and softening of crow’s feet.

Skin Protector/Healer

Kukui nut oil is easily absorbed by the deepest layers of the skin, and forms a protective barrier on the skin that protects against environmental damage. Kukui nut oil is used to treat sunburns, windburns, eczema, chapped skin, psoriasis, dry skin conditions, acne, scars, lesions and maturing skin. According to an article on aromaweb.com, kukui nut oil is composed of 42 percent linoleic acid and 29 percent alpha-linolenic acid, which may help to heal certain skin conditions, while keeping the skin healthy and nourished.

Kukui nut oil is a natural moisturizer that has been used for centuries in Hawaii. It is produced by pressing oil from the kukui nut (or candlenut) tree, and it contains essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants that help to soothe dry skin and heal wounds.

While Polynesians historically used kukui nut oil to “protect the skin of babies,” this emollient is popping up today in shampoos, body scrubs and lip balms. Below are seven beauty uses for this ancient Hawaiian secret.

Maui Soap Company products with Kukui Oil:

Body Butters

Hydrating Body Mists