Active Ingredient Glossary

Macadamia Oil: A Light Nourishing Oil for Hair and Skin

Ingredient Encyclopedia · M INCI: Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil Macadamia oil is the lightest of all skincare oils: It absorbs quickly, nourishes without leaving a greasy residue, and has a composition similar to the skin’s own sebum. It has achieved cult status in Korean hair care—KUNDAL’s Honey & Macadamia line has made this oil its signature ingredient. Profile Research Effective against dry hair, frizz, and rough skin Skin Type: All; Hair: All hair types Concentration: As an oil component; no standard value Routine: Daily, hair and body care Adjustment period: None required What is macadamia oil? Macadamia oil is pressed from the nuts of the macadamia tree, which is native to Australia. Its fatty acid profile makes it unique: it contains a notably high proportion of palmitoleic acid—an omega-7 fatty acid that is also found in human sebum. That’s why macadamia oil is considered a “skin-friendly” oil: it feels familiar, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave a heavy, greasy film. This active ingredient has gained popularity in K-Beauty: The Korean brand KUNDAL combines macadamia oil with honey extract—from shampoo to hair treatments to body scrubs. The oil also appears in facial care products, such as MAD HIPPIE’s Cream Cleanser, where it serves as a moisturizing agent. Effect: What’s Proven Three out of five bars—and that’s an honest assessment. The composition of macadamia oil is well documented; its effect as an emollient—that is, as a smoothing, softening skincare oil—is plausible and has been demonstrated in cosmetic application tests. In the hair, the oil coats the cuticle, smoothing it out and visibly reducing frizz and loss of shine. On the skin, it softens rough patches and helps the skin barrier retain moisture. What’s missing are large, independent clinical studies on humans—as is the case with most plant oils. To sum it up fairly: a reliable skincare oil, not a miracle cure. Usage & Combination Macadamia oil is easy to use: When added to shampoo and conditioner, it nourishes your hair with every wash without requiring any changes to your routine. As an ingredient in body scrubs and lotions, it nourishes the skin immediately after a shower. Whether used pure or in high concentrations, a few drops are enough—work it into the lengths and ends rather than the roots. Pairs well with ✓ Honey & Proteins – the KUNDAL duo: moisture plus smoothness ✓ Jojoba oil – two lightweight oils that don’t weigh down hair or skin ✓ Shea butter & rich creams – macadamia absorbs, while the butter seals in moisture Note ! Macadamia is a nut—if you have a known nut allergy, consult a doctor before use ! Very fine hair: Use pure oil only on the lengths and ends, not at the roots Macadamia oil in the BONSANA lineup KUNDAL Honey & Macadamia Shampoo Baby Powder CHF 18.90 500 ml KUNDAL Honey & Macadamia Treatment Baby Powder CHF 18.90 500 ml KUNDAL Macadamia Sugar Body Scrub Cherry Blossom CHF 25.90 550 g MAD HIPPIE Cream Cleanser with Macadamia CHF 14.90 118 ml Shop Now Discover hair care with macadamia oil KUNDAL Honey & Macadamia and more—shampoos and treatments in stock in Switzerland, delivered quickly to you. Go to Hair Care → Related entries: Jojoba oil · Argan oil · Read more: Korean shampoo: The guide Frequently Asked Questions About Macadamia Oil Is macadamia oil suitable for fine hair? Yes—it’s one of the lighter hair care oils and is less likely to weigh hair down than, say, coconut oil. In shampoos and treatments, the dosage is already balanced; when using pure oil on fine hair, apply it sparingly to the lengths and ends. Does macadamia oil clog pores? Macadamia oil is considered fairly light and is well-tolerated by most skin types. However, if you’re prone to breakouts, you should still test new products on a small area of skin first. What are the benefits of macadamia oil in shampoo? It provides nourishment with every wash: The oil smooths the cuticle, reduces frizz, and ensures that hair feels supple rather than dry after washing. Can I use macadamia oil if I have a nut allergy? Macadamia is a nut. Even though cosmetic oils are highly refined, if you have a known nut allergy, you should consult a doctor before use and test the product on the inside of your elbow first.