Calophyllum Inophyllum (Alexandrian Laurel) Oil
What is Calophyllum Inophyllum (Alexandrian Laurel) Oil?
Calophyllum Inophyllum Oil, also called tamanu or Alexandrian laurel oil, comes from the dried kernels of seeds from the Calophyllum inophyllum tree, native to tropical regions including Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, India, and East Africa. This golden-green vegetable oil contains a mix of lipids, primarily fatty acids like oleic, stearic, palmitic, and linoleic acids, plus specialized compounds such as calophyllolide. In cosmetic products, it functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. It spreads easily on the skin, creating an occlusive layer that locks in moisture, enhances skin softness, and helps maintain the protective barrier. Commonly featured in face oils, body butters, balms, and night creams, it supports hydration without greasiness due to its balanced fatty acid profile.
Benefits
Delivers emollient action to soften and smooth skin texture
Aids in maintaining skin moisture and barrier integrity
Non-comedogenic, suitable for various skin types without pore clogging
Who It's For
A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).
| Who May Benefit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| Individuals with dry or dehydrated skin seeking natural hydration | Persons with known sensitivity to Calophyllum inophyllum or related plants |
| People looking for emollient support in daily skincare routines | Individuals prone to photosensitivity due to potential phototoxic compounds |
| Those preferring plant-based oils for conditioning effects | Anyone experiencing contact dermatitis from similar seed oils |
Safety Notes
- Rated low hazard by authoritative cosmetic safety databases
- Patch testing advised before full-face application
Frequently Asked Questions about Calophyllum Inophyllum (Alexandrian Laurel) Oil
What is Calophyllum Inophyllum Oil?
A plant oil extracted from tamanu tree seed kernels, used in cosmetics as an emollient for skin softening and hydration.
Is it comedogenic?
No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it unlikely to clog pores.
What is its safety profile?
Low hazard rating from cosmetic safety assessments, generally safe for topical use with patch testing recommended.