What is it? |
A liquid oil pressed from macadamia nuts. |
Appearance |
A golden yellow liquid oil. |
Texture |
Silky smooth. |
Scent |
The unrefined version is slightly nutty, but not overwhelmingly so. The refined stuff doesn’t smell like much at all. |
Absorbency Speed |
Fast |
Solubility |
Oil |
Why do we use it in formulations? |
Because it absorbs into the skin quickly it’s a great choice for making lightweight lotions that absorb into the skin quickly, and it can help lighten heavier oils like shea butter. |
Do you need it? |
I really like it, but as far as fast-absorbing carrier oils go it is one of the pricier ones. You could get away with grapeseed or safflower oil instead in most applications. |
Refined or unrefined? |
I like the unrefined variety for the nutty scent. |
Strengths |
Beautiful, fast-absorbing oil that’s rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. |
Weaknesses |
A pricier carrier oil, and obviously not suitable for those with nut allergies. |
Alternatives & Substitutions |
Other fast-absorbing carrier oils like grapeseed and safflower (though you’ll lose the nutty scent). |
How to Work with It |
I love it in lotions, lip balms, and body butters. |
Storage & Shelf Life |
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, macadamia nut oil should last up to two years. |
Tips, Tricks, and Quirks |
The nutty scent and colour can vary from batch to batch with the unrefined version. |
Recommended starter amount |
100mL (3.3fl oz) |
Where to Buy it |
Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier or Amazon. |
Some Formulations that Use Macadamia Nut Oil