Marula oil showed zero irritation in patch tests and significantly improved skin hydration and moisture retention when applied topically. The oil is 69% oleic acid (a known skin-conditioning fatty acid), plus palmitic, linoleic, and stearic acids that support the skin barrier.

Researchers tested marula oil on 20 healthy adult volunteers using clinical instruments to measure irritation, hydration, moisture, and barrier function. They also analyzed the exact fatty acid composition of the oil using advanced lab testing.

Funding not disclosed in abstract