Do you know the official state tree of Hawaii? It’s the candlenut tree, or in Hawaiian, kukui tree. (Kukui means “enlightenment” in Hawaiian.) The kukui tree was first brought to Hawaii by early Polynesian settlers and Hawaiians have been using it for centuries for religious, health, and beauty purposes. But in recent years, kukui oil has become more mainstream — as the rest of the world has slowly picked up on this ancient Hawaiian beauty secret.
Kukui Oil — the Secret is Out
Kukui oil is said to be one of the best oils for skin. Kukui oil is produced by pressing the seed kernel of the roasted kukui nut. The oil is so beneficial because it contains vitamins A, C, and E — antioxidants that protect skin and prevent free-radical damage. Due to its fatty acid makeup, it’s very close to the makeup of our own skin’s natural sebum, which makes it easily absorbed into even the deepest layers of skin.
What Are the Benefits of Kukui Nut Oil?
Kukui oil moisturizes, protects, and heals the skin. It has been shown to:
- Leave skin smooth and silky without feeling oily
- Reduce the appearance of wrinkles
- Reduce inflammation
- Boost collagen production
- Exfoliate old skin and aid in new skin regeneration
- Prevent free-radical damage
- Prevent and soften crow’s feet
- Protect against environmental damage
- Aid in wound and burn healing (hospitals in Hawaii use it to treat radiation burns!)
- Penetrate deeply into the skin
- Reduce the appearance of scars
Overall, kukui nut oil can help your skin to look youthful and radiant. It can be used to effectively treat sunburn, windburn, acne, scars, dry skin, eczema, and more. Add it to your skin creams and lotions for an extra boost, add a couple of drops to your bath water, use it as a massage oil, and even use it to treat dry hair and scalp. It is appropriate for both oily and dry skin types.
In a nutshell (pun intended!), we think it’s safe to say this Hawaiian beauty secret is versatile enough for anybody and effective for just about everybody!
Where Can I Find Kukui Nut Oil?
Short of taking a trip to Hawaii, the next best option is to look for a brand that ethically and sustainably sources the oil. Since kukui nut oil has soared in popularity in recent years, it’s not difficult to find online. When purchasing kukui nut oil, look for organic cold-pressed options, without any extra fillers or additives.
We urge you to try our own premium kukui-based facial oil: Kaiimi oil, sold in our office and on our online shop! Our Kaiimi oil contains just three top quality ingredients: organic cold-pressed kukui nut oil, organic cold-pressed macadamia nut oil, and organic frangipani oil (plumeria). In addition to the powerful properties of the kukui nut oil, macadamia nut oil enhances the moisturizing, regenerating, and skin-softening properties. Frangipani oil offers additional support for healthy collagen production (and smells incredible!). These three potent ingredients together make for a premium organic oil that you have to try to believe!
Anti-aging oils and more…
Here at Hawaii Blue, we’re dedicated to providing you with the best anti-aging solutions available. Whether it’s our custom organic facial oils, our proprietary Lavasculpt procedure, or any variety of dermal fillers, we’re here to help you look and feel amazing. If you’re in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, come visit us to look ten years younger! Schedule a consultation today — it’s completely free.
(Photo credit, kukui nut: Forest & Kim Starr, CC BY 3.0, Link)