Ingredient Spotlight: Tamanu Oil

What is Tamanu Oil?

Tamanu oil comes from the nuts of the Tamanu tree (Calophyllum inophyllum) and is a nutrient-rich, cold-pressed oil derived from the nuts of the Tamanu tree, native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. For centuries, traditional medicine in Polynesia, Madagascar, and Southeast Asia has relied on Tamanu oil for treating wounds, burns, scars, and inflammatory skin conditions. ), a resilient coastal native known for its glossy leaves and rugged beauty. Communities in Polynesia and beyond have harvested these nuts by hand, pressing them to extract a rich, emerald-hued oil. Traditionally, it’s been a go-to remedy for soothing cuts, burns, and skin conditions like eczema - earning its reputation as a natural healer. Today, this time-honored ingredient is celebrated worldwide, blending ancient wisdom with cutting-edge skincare science.

It's no surprise that it is often dubbed “green gold,”. This golden-green oil has gained recognition in modern skincare for its potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-regenerating properties, making it a must-try for those struggling with acne, scarring, and sensitive skin.

How Does Tamanu Oil Work for Acne & Scarring?

Unlike many commercial skincare ingredients that provide a temporary fix, Tamanu oil works at a cellular level to heal and restore the skin. Here's how:

1. Fights Acne-Causing Bacteria

Tamanu oil contains calophyllolide, a rare compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that Tamanu oil can effectively combat Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) and Staphylococcus epidermidis - the bacteria responsible for breakouts.

✔ Why it matters: Instead of harsh, drying acne treatments that strip the skin, Tamanu oil fights bacteria while keeping your skin nourished.

2. Reduces Inflammation & Redness

Chronic inflammation is a key driver of acne, rosacea, and skin irritation. Tamanu oil’s anti-inflammatory compounds calm redness, reduce swelling, and promote faster healing of active breakouts.

✔ Why it matters: Less inflammation means fewer breakouts, less irritation, and an overall healthier complexion.

3. Speeds Up Wound Healing & Scar Reduction

One of Tamanu oil’s most impressive benefits is its ability to promote skin regeneration and reduce scarring. Research suggests that it stimulates collagen production and accelerates the formation of new, healthy skin cells.

✔ Why it matters: Whether you're dealing with acne scars, stretch marks, or hyperpigmentation, Tamanu oil helps fade marks over time, leaving skin smoother and more even-toned.

4. Balances Oil Production Without Clogging Pores

Tamanu oil has a unique lipid profile that mimics the skin’s natural sebum, making it deeply moisturizing without being greasy or pore-clogging (non-comedogenic).

✔ Why it matters: It hydrates dry areas while balancing excess oil production, making it ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types.

Tamanu Oil & The Power of “Green” Skincare

Tamanu oil is even more effective when paired with other anti-inflammatory and skin-healing oils, creating a holistic approach to acne-prone skin care. Here’s how we’re incorporating it into a targeted skincare range:

🌿 Hemp Seed Oil – Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, hemp seed oil strengthens the skin barrier and prevents moisture loss.

🌿 Green Tea Oil Extract – A potent antioxidant that fights oxidative stress, reduces redness, and helps regulate oil production.

🌿 Lemongrass & Cedarwood Essential Oils – These natural astringents and antimicrobials purify the skin and promote a clearer complexion.

Together, these ingredients create a powerful skincare formula designed to reduce acne, calm inflammation, fade scars, and support skin health naturally.

How to Use Tamanu Oil for Best Results

• As a spot treatment: Apply a drop directly to pimples or scars before bed.
• Mixed into a moisturizer: Blend with your favorite non-comedogenic moisturizer for added hydration.
• In a facial oil blend: Pair with lighter oils like rosehip or hemp seed oil to create a custom acne-fighting serum.
• For body scars & stretch marks: Massage into affected areas daily to improve skin texture and fade discoloration.

Final Takeaway

If you’re looking for a scientifically-backed, natural solution for acne-prone skin, Tamanu oil is an incredible alternative to harsh acne treatments. It may promote healing without stripping your skin’s natural barrier.

With its long history in traditional medicine and modern dermatological benefits, Tamanu oil is being screened as a skincare game-changer - especially when combined with other green, anti-inflammatory ingredients.

If you are looking to try a clean, plant-based skincare solution for acne and scarring? Then Moya Essentials Jojoba & Tamanu Body Butter is recommended as it is rounded out with creamy shea butter and avocado butter creating a velvety texture that melts on contact. The result? A rich, non-sticky body butter that leaves your skin soft, smooth, and subtly radiant - perfect for everyday indulgence or targeted care. Produced by Sonja Borodin-Sleigh, Moya Essentials certified natural and organic skincare professional. Sonja studied at the School of Natural Skincare and The Herbal Hub before pursuing her passion in creating Moya Essentials. Browse the Moya Essentials Shopfront here: Moya Essentials Range on Terra.

The story behind our Jojoba Tamanu Body Butter began when researching, trialing and developing natural oils to tackle acne and scarring for a skincare range aimed to help teens and young adults prone to breakouts. Tamanu oil quickly emerged as a standout, with its remarkable scarring benefits and anti-inflammatory properties. We blended it with other “green” oils like hemp seed oil and green tea oil extract - both prized for their anti-inflammatory properties - along with lemongrass and cedarwood essential oils for a soothing, healing element. This thoughtful mix not only hydrates but also nurtures skin health, especially for those facing acne and scarring challenges. ~ Sonja 

References:

• Pribowo A, Girish J, Gustiananda M, Nandhira RG, Hartrianti P. Potential of Tamanu (Calophyllum inophyllum) Oil for Atopic Dermatitis Treatment. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2021 Dec 26;2021:6332867. doi: 10.1155/2021/6332867. PMID: 35069754; PMCID: PMC8782620.
• Poljšak N, Kreft S, Kočevar Glavač N. Vegetable butters and oils in skin wound healing: Scientific evidence for new opportunities in dermatology. Phytother Res. 2020 Feb;34(2):254-269. doi: 10.1002/ptr.6524. Epub 2019 Oct 27. PMID: 31657094.