What is it? |
Walnut oil is a liquid carrier oil pressed from the walnut. It is comprised mostly of linoleic and oleic fatty acids. |
INCI |
Juglans Regia Seed Oil |
Appearance |
Clear yellow oil |
Usage rate |
Up to 100% |
Texture |
Smooth, satiny oil |
Scent |
The versions I’ve used have had a very “typical-of-carrier-oils” smell—that is, not nutty in the least. Walnut oil does have the potential to smell nutty if the walnuts are roasted before pressing, so check with your supplier! |
Absorbency Speed |
Average |
Approximate Melting Point |
Liquid at room temperature |
Solubility |
Oil |
Why do we use it in formulations? |
Walnut oil is a lovely emollient and is popular for use in massage oil blends. It is said to be good for irritated/inflamed skin due to anti-inflammatory properties. |
Do you need it? |
No |
Refined or unrefined? |
I feel like the more important question for walnut oil is roasted or not—choose roasted if you want a nutty scent, and unroasted if you don’t want a nutty scent. |
Strengths |
Lovely plant-based emollient oil with the potential to add a beautiful nutty scent to your products. It is also recommended for irritated skin. |
Weaknesses |
Should be avoided by those with nut allergies. |
Alternatives & Substitutions |
I’d start with other nut oils, like sweet almond oil. For those avoiding nuts, try safflower oil or apricot kernel oil. |
How to Work with It |
Include walnut oil in the oil phase of your formulations. It can be hot or cold processed. |
Storage & Shelf Life |
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, walnut oil should last up to two years. |
Tips, Tricks, and Quirks |
In aromatherapy walnut oil is said to help balance the nervous system. |
Recommended starter amount |
100mL (3.3fl oz) |
Where to Buy it |
Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier or Amazon. |