Tamanu oil comes from the seeds of the tamanu tree. Tamanu (calophyllum inophyllum) oil is not an essential oil as it may be believed but it is a fatty oil.
Tamanu oil is rich is fatty acids (including oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, arachidonic acid and stearic acid) that help keep skin moisturised and prevent premature skin aging.
1) provides UV protection
Tamanu oil can provide you an extra boost as an SPF protection. It provides properties that can protect your skin against harmful UV lights.
2) Has anti-inflammatory benefits
According to this study, Tamanu oil has anti-inflammatory benefits. It contains a molecule called calophyllolide that provides anti-inflammatory benefits to the skin.
It is beneficial for inflammatory skin conditions such as: eczema, acne, rosacea, psoriasis.
3) Antibacterial benefits + helps with acne
According to this study tamanu oil has antibacterial properties.
Acne:
Tamanu oil fights against the main bacteria that cause acne; P.Acnes and P. granulosum. Tamanu oil is safe for moisturising acne-prone skins.
4) Eczema
Tamanu oil helps to sooth skins with eczema thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
5) Anti-aging benefits
Tamanu oil is rich is fatty acids (including oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, arachidonic acid and stearic acid) that help keep skin moisturised and prevent premature skin aging.
-promotes collagen production
Tamanu oil is proven to promote collagen production and glycosaminoglycans (GAG), they both play a massive role in the anti-aging skin regeneration process.
– fights against free radicals
Tamanu oil is loaded with antioxidants that can help fight free radicals (free radicals can lead to premature aging). Thus, preventing from prematurely appearing fine lines and wrinkles.
– prevents fine lines and wrinkles caused by sun damage
According to this study, 85% of the DNA damage induced by UV radiation was shown to be inhibited by only 1% concentration of tamanu oil.
6) Moisturising benefits
Tamanu oil is loaded with fatty acids (including oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, arachidonic acid and stearic acid) which help hydrate skin. Tamanu oil works as an emollient, it locks moisture in.
Fatty acids present in tamanu oil help to feed skin barrier while protecting and strengthening it.
7) Wound healing, stretch marks, scarring
According to this study, tamanu oil plays an important role in wound healing.
Tamanu oil encourages the growth of new skin cells, promotes collagen and glycosaminoglycans production. All of these contribute to faster wound healing, and faster healing of stretch marks and scars.
Risks/ Side effects of tamanu oil
What we call tamanu oil, is the seed oil coming from the tamanu tree. However, the tamanu tree is a nut tree. If you are allergic to nuts, stay away from tamanu oil.
Tamanu oil is toxic if taken internally, do not consume it.
Avoid contact with the eyes.
Do not use tamanu oil on open wounds. Consult a doctor.
It is generally fairly safe when used for the skin.
-Tamanu oil can be slightly comedogenic, which means that it can clog pores, a correct use of the oil should be okay. Even though it can help with acne, if you see any clogged pores stop using it.
Patch test
Always do a patch test before using any new product on your skin. Especially If you have sensitive or eczema do not skip this step.
Apply a small amount on your wrist.
If any irritation occurs following a week after application do not use it on your skin.
Use of tamanu oil
Tamanu oil tend to be a very “active” oil, thus it is preferred to dilute it with a 50% of a carrier oil (such as grapeseed oil, almond oil, olive oil) which you know also suits your skin type/concern.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This content does NOT provide medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is NOT a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult your own doctor for more information.
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