Tamanu Oil: The Underrated Skin & Hair Superhero You Need to Try
If you’re into natural skincare, you’ve probably heard about argan oil, rosehip oil, and jojoba oil. But have you tried tamanu oil?
This thick, green oil from the tamanu tree is basically a miracle worker for skin and hair. It’s packed with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and scar-fading benefits—yet somehow, it’s still slept on.
Let’s break down why tamanu oil deserves a spot in your skincare and haircare routine, plus how to use it, DIY recipes, and what makes it better (or worse) than other oils.
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What is Tamanu Oil? 🌿
Tamanu oil comes from the nuts of the tamanu tree (Calophyllum inophyllum), which grows in tropical areas like Southeast Asia, Polynesia, and Madagascar.
✔ Rich in fatty acids – Keeps skin hydrated and plump
✔ Natural antibacterial properties – Fights acne and scalp issues
✔ Wound-healing power – Speeds up skin repair for scars, burns, and stretch marks
✔ Loaded with antioxidants – Fights free radicals that cause wrinkles
💡 Fun fact: Pacific Islanders have used tamanu oil for centuries as a natural skin healer for everything from cuts and burns to eczema and sun damage.
Tamanu Oil Benefits for Skin Care 🧴
Tamanu oil isn’t just another face oil—it’s a powerhouse for repairing, calming, and hydrating skin.
1. Fades Acne Scars & Dark Spots
✔ Contains calophyllolide, which reduces hyperpigmentation
✔ Speeds up skin cell turnover to fade dark spots faster
💡 How to use: Apply 1-2 drops of tamanu oil directly on scars every night.
2. Soothes Acne & Breakouts
✔ Natural antibacterial properties help kill acne-causing bacteria
✔ Anti-inflammatory compounds calm redness & swelling
💡 How to use: Mix 2 drops of tamanu oil with aloe vera gel and apply to breakouts.
3. Heals Dry, Damaged Skin (Eczema, Psoriasis, Sunburns)
✔ Tamanu oil is super moisturizing without clogging pores
✔ Contains wound-healing properties that help repair flaky, irritated skin
💡 How to use: Apply tamanu oil directly to dry patches or mix it with your favorite moisturizer.
4. Anti-Aging & Wrinkle Fighter
✔ High in antioxidants that fight fine lines and sun damage
✔ Stimulates collagen production for firmer skin
💡 How to use: Mix 3 drops of tamanu oil with rosehip oil and massage into your skin before bed.
Tamanu Oil for Hair: Benefits & How to Use It 💆♀️
Tamanu oil isn’t just amazing for skin—it works wonders for hair, too.
1. Strengthens & Hydrates Hair
✔ Packed with fatty acids that deeply moisturize and strengthen strands
✔ Helps with frizz and split ends
💡 How to use: Warm a few drops of tamanu oil in your hands and smooth it onto dry or damp hair.
2. Soothes Dry, Itchy Scalp & Dandruff
✔ Natural antibacterial & antifungal properties calm scalp irritation
✔ Hydrates dry scalp without making hair greasy
💡 How to use: Mix tamanu oil with coconut oil and massage into the scalp before washing.
3. Supports Hair Growth
✔ Contains nutrients that stimulate hair follicles
✔ Strengthens hair roots to reduce hair fall
💡 How to use: Add a few drops of tamanu oil to your shampoo for extra nourishment.
DIY Tamanu Oil Recipes 🌿✨
1. DIY Tamanu Balm for Dry Skin & Eczema
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp tamanu oil
- 1 tbsp shea butter
- 1 tbsp beeswax
- 3 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Melt shea butter and beeswax in a double boiler.
- Stir in tamanu oil and lavender oil.
- Pour into a jar and let it cool.
- Apply to dry skin, eczema patches, or cracked heels.
2. DIY Tamanu Face Serum (For Acne & Scars)
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp tamanu oil
- 1 tbsp rosehip oil
- 3 drops tea tree oil
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a glass dropper bottle.
- Apply 2-3 drops every night after cleansing.
3. DIY Tamanu Hair Mask (For Dry, Frizzy Hair)
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp tamanu oil
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 egg yolk
Instructions:
- Mix everything together and apply to damp hair.
- Leave on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse.
Tamanu Oil vs. Other Popular Oils
| Oil | Best For | Comedogenic Rating (0 = won’t clog pores) |
|---|---|---|
| Tamanu Oil | Acne scars, wound healing, hydration | 2 (low risk of clogging pores) |
| Rosehip Oil | Anti-aging, brightening, lightweight hydration | 1 |
| Jojoba Oil | Closest to natural skin oil, great for sensitive skin | 2 |
| Argan Oil | Hair hydration, frizz control, lightweight moisture | 0 |
💡 Best Choice? Tamanu oil is perfect for acne-prone skin, but if you have super oily skin, try rosehip or jojoba oil instead.
My Recommendation: Nature Bisse, My Absolute Favorite: Rosehip + Tamanu Oil
Why They Work So Well Together
✔ Rosehip Oil = The Brightener → Rich in vitamin C and vitamin A, it fades dark spots, boosts collagen, and hydrates without feeling greasy.
✔ Tamanu Oil = The Healer → Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, it calms breakouts, reduces redness, and speeds up skin healing.
Together, they create the perfect balance:
🌿 Tamanu heals, while rosehip repairs.
💧 Tamanu provides deep hydration, while rosehip keeps it lightweight.
✨ Tamanu fades scars, while rosehip brightens and evens skin tone.
If you want hydrated, clear, youthful skin—this is the power combo you need.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Tamanu Oil
Q: Can I use tamanu oil every day?
A: Yes! It’s safe for daily use on both skin and hair.
Q: Does tamanu oil clog pores?
A: It has a low comedogenic rating (2), meaning it’s unlikely to clog pores, but if you have very oily skin, patch-test first.
Q: Can tamanu oil help with stretch marks?
A: Yes! Its wound-healing properties make it great for reducing the appearance of stretch marks over time.
Q: Can tamanu oil be used on sensitive skin?
A: Usually, yes, but do a patch test first, especially if you have nut allergies.
Q: What does tamanu oil smell like?
A: Not gonna lie—it’s earthy and nutty. Some people love it, some don’t. If you hate strong smells, mix it with another oil like jojoba or rosehip.
Final Thoughts: Is Tamanu Oil Worth It?
✔ If you have acne scars, dark spots, or dry skin, tamanu oil is a game-changer.
✔ If you’re dealing with scalp issues, frizz, or hair thinning, it’s one of the best natural oils for hair.
✔ It’s affordable, effective, and 100% natural—so it’s definitely worth adding to your routine.
Would you try tamanu oil?
