emollients

Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil

Kukui Nut Oil

emollientconditioningskin protectant

INCI Name

Aleurites Moluccana ...

Functions

3 Roles

Sustainability

8/10

Category

emollients

What It Does

Kukui Nut Oil is a lightweight, fast-absorbing fixed oil cold-pressed from the seeds of the Aleurites moluccana tree, traditionally used by Native Hawaiians to soothe and protect skin from harsh environmental conditions. It is exceptionally rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid (40–42%) and alpha-linolenic acid (28–30%), giving it an unusually dry, non-greasy skin feel that distinguishes it from heavier tropical oils. Formulators prize it for its ability to rapidly penetrate the stratum corneum, replenish essential fatty acids in compromised skin barriers, and impart a silky after-feel in facial oils, after-sun preparations, and products targeting dry or sensitive skin.

Softens and smooths skin texture
Creates protective moisture barrier
Improves product feel and glide
Reduces transepidermal water loss

Technical Properties

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

neutral

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

other plant oils and esterswaxesemulsifiersnonionic surfactantssiliconesantioxidantsfat-soluble vitaminsbotanical extracts

Avoid Combining

strong oxidizing agentshigh concentrations of transition metal ions without chelation
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

8/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

plant-derived

Feedstock

Seeds of the Kukui nut tree (Aleurites moluccana), native to Hawaii and Southeast Asia, where it holds cultural significance as the official state tree of Hawaii

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