Ask the Expert: What Is Tamanu Oil?

With the rising popularity of oils in skin care—coconut oil, almond oil and grapeseed oil, just to name a few—it can be difficult to keep track of each ingredient’s benefits. But that’s where we at Skincare.com can help; we’re able to give you the lowdown on various skin care oils and how you can use them. One of our current favorites is tamanu oil. If you haven’t heard of tamanu oil before, or have and simply want to learn more, keep reading! We’re sharing the benefits of tamanu oil for skin—plus how to incorporate it into your skin care routine, below.

What Is Tamanu Oil?

Tamanu oil is derived from a nut produced by trees native to Polynesia in the South Pacific

So, what is tamanu oil anyway? We asked board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant, Dr. Ted Lain (@DrTedLain), that very question, and we were a bit surprised to learn that it’s not a newly-discovered ingredient by any means. “Tamanu oil is derived from a nut produced by trees native to Polynesia in the South Pacific,” he says. “It has been used for centuries in this area.”

According to the International Dermal Institute, tamanu oil contains potent antioxidants that can help protect against free radicals. By applying products formulated with antioxidants to the skin, you can help to combat free radicals.

How to Incorporate Tamanu Oil in Your Skin Care Routine

Looking for a product formulated with tamanu oil? Give Kiehl’s Daily Reviving Concentrate a try! It’s formulated with a revitalizing blend of ginger root, sunflower, and tamanu oils and can help correct the visible appearance of skin fatigue. The formula can help protect the skin’s defenses against daily aggressors and helps keep skin looking youthfully awakened and radiant day after day.

Kiehl’s Daily Reviving Concentrate, $73 MSRP