Little known to the general public but already praised by cosmetic laboratories, Kendi oil is emerging as one of the most interesting plant active ingredients for dry, sensitive, or dull skin. Originally from the Pacific, this ancestral oil combines a richness in essential fatty acids and an antioxidant profile that make it a valuable ally, both for gentle makeup removal and for deep skin nourishment. Here's everything you need to know about Kendi oil: where it comes from, what science says about its benefits, and how to intelligently integrate it into your routine. What is Kendi oil? Kendi oil is extracted by cold pressing the nuts of the Aleurites moluccana tree, also known as the candlenut tree, or "Kukui" in Hawaii, where it is the state tree. Native to tropical Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia) and the Pacific, this fast-growing tree produces spherical fruits, candlenuts, whose kernels can contain up to 60% oil. Used for centuries by Pacific peoples for both food and traditional skin and hair care, Kendi oil (INCI: Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil) is now recognized by the CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) as a safe ingredient for cosmetic use, including on sensitive skin [ref. 4]. The composition of Kendi oil: what science reveals What distinguishes Kendi oil from other vegetable oils is its lipid profile, which is particularly rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids. Composition analyses report: Component Average proportion Role for the skin Linoleic acid (omega-6) 35 to 42 % Strengthens the skin barrier, limits water loss Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) 24 to 40 % Soothes, supports skin comfort Oleic acid (omega-9) 10 to 35 % Softens and nourishes Palmitic acid 5 to 8 % Oil texture and stability Vitamin E (tocopherols) significant traces Antioxidant action This unusual combination of the three omega families (3, 6, and 9) in a single oil is relatively rare in the plant kingdom [ref. 3, 5], which explains why Kendi oil penetrates the skin quickly without leaving a greasy film, unlike oils richer in saturated fatty acids like coconut oil. The benefits of Kendi oil for the skin 1. Intense and lasting hydration Thanks to its high content of linoleic and alpha-linolenic acids, Kendi oil strengthens the skin's hydrolipidic film and limits transepidermal water loss. It acts as an emollient and occlusive active ingredient: it forms a protective veil that helps the skin retain its hydration, while remaining light to the touch. This makes it a choice ingredient for dry, dehydrated, or damaged skin, without a greasy effect or sticky sensation. 2. Documented antioxidant action Kendi oil contains tocopherols (vitamin E), known for neutralizing free radicals involved in premature skin aging and oxidative stress linked to external aggressions (pollution, UV). This antioxidant dimension is one of the reasons why Kendi oil is increasingly integrated into anti-aging care and so-called "barrier" formulas. 3. Soothing properties, derived from traditional use validated by research Aleurites moluccana has been studied for several years by Brazilian pharmacological research. A study published in 2012 in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (Cesca et al.) tested a semi-solid preparation based on a standardized plant extract on an animal model: researchers observed a notable acceleration of skin healing as well as measurable analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, consistent with traditional use described in the pharmacopoeia of the Pacific and South America [ref. 1]. A complementary study by the same team, published in 2015, clarified the mechanism of action of this topical anti-inflammatory effect: it would primarily rely on a reduction in the migration of leukocytes to the inflamed area, leading to a decrease in pro-inflammatory mediators [ref. 2]. These works focus on a standardized leaf extract rather than the seed oil itself: they nevertheless scientifically support the traditional soothing and repairing use associated with this plant for generations in the Pacific. 4. An ally for the elasticity and comfort of damaged skin Traditionally used in massage, Kendi oil is known to improve skin suppleness and elasticity. It is particularly suitable for dry, tight, or weakened skin, whether on the face or body. 5. A non-greasy texture, suitable for all skin types Unlike some denser vegetable oils, Kendi oil penetrates quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Its lightness makes it an active ingredient compatible with combination to oily skin, in addition to a richer oil for very dry skin. How to use Kendi oil in your beauty routine? Kendi oil can be incorporated into several steps of your facial routine: As a makeup remover. Thanks to its affinity with fatty substances, an oil rich in fatty acids like Kendi oil effectively dissolves makeup and impurities while respecting the hydrolipidic film, unlike foaming makeup removers that can dry out the skin. This is the principle sought after in an organic makeup remover gel: a texture that combines the softness of an oil-based treatment with the freshness of a gel, for complete makeup removal without tightening the skin. As a daily moisturizing treatment. Applied pure or integrated into a formula, Kendi oil ideally complements a moisturizing and antioxidant treatment designed to strengthen the skin barrier daily. Combining active ingredients rich in omega and vitamin E, as our moisturizing and antioxidant cream does, allows for accumulated nourishment, comfort, and protection against oxidative stress. For body massage. A few drops are enough to nourish dry areas (elbows, knees, legs) without a sticky effect. On dry hair or frizz. Applied in small quantities to lengths and ends, it provides sheathing, softness, and disciplines the hair fiber. Kendi oil vs. other vegetable oils: how does it differ? Oil Main strength Texture Ideal for Kendi Oil Omega 3-6-9 balance + Vitamin E Light, non-greasy Dry to combination skin, face and hair Coconut Oil Very occlusive, rich in saturated fatty acids Rich, potentially greasy film Very dry skin, body Organic Argan Oil Rich in Vitamin E, silky texture Medium Mature skin Organic Jojoba Oil Similar to skin sebum Very light Combination to oily skin The specificity of Kendi oil lies in its triple richness in omegas 3, 6, and 9 combined with rapid penetration: a profile that few vegetable oils simultaneously possess, which explains its increasing use in premium formulations. Frequently asked questions about Kendi oil Is Kendi oil comedogenic? No. Its light texture and composition of unsaturated fatty acids make it a generally well-tolerated oil, even by oily or combination skin types, although a patch test on the elbow crease is still recommended before any first use, as with any new active ingredient. Is Kendi oil suitable for sensitive skin? Yes. The CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) has evaluated this ingredient as safe for cosmetic use, with a very low irritating or sensitizing potential. However, people allergic to tree nuts are advised to perform a preliminary skin test as a precaution. Can Kendi oil be applied pure to the face? Yes, it can be applied pure, as the last step of your evening routine, or mixed with your usual cream. It is also used as a makeup remover base due to its ability to dissolve makeup. What is the difference between Kendi oil and Kukui oil? None: "Kendi" and "Kukui" refer to the same oil, extracted from the same tree, Aleurites moluccana. The name varies according to regions of the world: Kukui in Hawaii, Kendi in Indonesia, Candlenut oil in English-speaking countries. Does Kendi oil have an odor? No, or very slightly. This is an advantage for formulations that wish to limit the risk of irritation related to fragrances. Where and how to store Kendi oil? Being rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, it is sensitive to oxidation. It is recommended to store it away from light and heat, in a well-closed bottle. In summary Kendi oil ticks all the boxes for a high-performing plant active ingredient: a rich and balanced composition of omegas 3, 6, and 9, a moisturizing and antioxidant action supported by scientific literature, and a light texture that makes it compatible with most skin types. Whether for gentle makeup removal or for daily skin hydration and protection, it naturally finds its place in a minimalist and effective routine, reflected in the spirit of our skincare products designed to respect and strengthen the skin barrier. Scientific references Cesca, T. G., Faqueti, L. G., Rocha, L. W., Meira, N. A., Meyre-Silva, C., de Souza, M. M., Quintão, N. L. M., Silva, R. M. L., Cechinel Filho, V., & Bresolin, T. M. B. (2012). Antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and wound healing features in animal models treated with a semisolid herbal medicine based on Aleurites moluccana L. Willd. Euforbiaceae standardized leaf extract. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 143(1), 355-362. Cesca, T. G. et al. (2015). Topical anti-inflammatory activity of semisolid containing standardized Aleurites moluccana L. Willd (Euphorbiaceae) leaves extract. PubMed PMID : 26196401. Rosa, M. C. B., Ribeiro, P. R., Silva, V. O., Selvati-Rezende, D. A. C., Silva, T. P., Souza, F. R., Cardoso, M. G., Seixas, J. N., Andrade, E. F., Pardi, V., & Murata, R. M. (2022). Fatty acids composition and in vivo biochemical effects of Aleurites moluccana seed (Candlenut) in obese Wistar rats. Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome. DOI : 10.1186/s13098-022-00847-4. Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel — safety assessment of the ingredient Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil for cosmetic use. SpecialChem — Cosmetic ingredient sheet Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil, CAS 8015-80-3. This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. In case of reactive skin, a patch test is recommended before any new application.

Long before sophisticated laboratories and flasks, beauty was about gestures, plants, and transmission. All over the world, generations of women developed simple, natural, and remarkably effective beauty rituals, shaped by their land and traditions. From shea butter harvested in West Africa to the rice water of Japanese geishas, these ancestral secrets have lost none of their relevance. Better yet, today they inspire all modern natural cosmetics. Embark on a journey between Africa and Asia, discovering these global beauty rituals and the ingredients that make them unique. Africa: Beauty through Raw Ingredients In Africa, beauty draws from generous nature and minimally processed ingredients, passed down from mother to daughter. Here, there's no excess: the focus is on raw, nourishing materials whose effectiveness has been proven over centuries. Shea butter, the gold of Burkina Faso women Nicknamed "women's gold," shea butter is undoubtedly the most precious treasure of African beauty. Extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, it is traditionally harvested and processed by women, who perpetuate the know-how. Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, it intensely nourishes, protects against external aggressions, and helps skin repair itself. It's a signature ingredient found at the heart of many Nohèm skincare products, directly derived from this tradition. Black soap and rhassoul, the secrets of the hammam In the Maghreb, the hammam ritual is an institution. Black soap, a vegetable paste made from olives, prepares and softens the skin before a glove exfoliation that removes dead cells. Rhassoul, a natural clay extracted from the Moroccan Atlas mountains, then gently purifies the skin and hair. A complete, 100% natural purification ritual that leaves the skin clean and velvety. Ancestral oils: argan, baobab, marula Africa is also home to exceptional vegetable oils. Argan oil, precious and nourishing, works wonders on both skin and hair. Baobab oil and marula oil, rarer, are prized for their richness in antioxidants and their ability to regenerate the driest skin. So many treasures that transcend generations without aging. Asia: Beauty through Delicacy and Regularity If Africa celebrates raw ingredients, Asia cultivates the art of gesture. Here, beauty is a matter of gentleness, prevention, and consistency: meticulous daily rituals, where one cares for their skin like a garden. Rice, the secret to radiant skin in Japan and Korea In Japan, it is said that geishas owed part of their luminous complexion to rice water. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, this water used as a lotion softens the skin and gives it radiance. Rice powder, on the other hand, mattifies and unifies the complexion. A simple ritual, passed down for centuries, and still relevant today. Green tea and soothing plants In China and Japan, green tea is not just a drink: it's also a beauty ally. Full of antioxidants, it helps protect the skin from premature aging and soothes it. It is found in many skincare products, alongside other traditional plants with calming properties. The oils and flowers of Indian Ayurveda In India, Ayurvedic medicine considers beauty to be a global balance. Oil massage, or abhyanga, nourishes the skin while promoting relaxation. Turmeric, used in masks, is renowned for illuminating the complexion, while floral waters enhance and perfume. Gestures rooted in a holistic vision of well-being, where external and internal are one. What these rituals teach us today From one continent to another, a common thread emerges: natural ingredients, simple compositions, and respect for time and gesture. Where the industry has sometimes multiplied synthetic ingredients, these traditions remind us that beautiful skin does not need complexity, only the right ingredients and consistency. It is precisely this philosophy that drives modern natural cosmetics and the clean beauty movement: returning to essentials, prioritizing transparency and respect for both skin and planet. Global Rituals at the Heart of Nohèm Skincare At Nohèm, these rituals are not just a source of inspiration: they are our starting point. Since 2009, we have traveled the world to draw on this ancestral knowledge and translate it into modern skincare. Shea butter from Burkina Faso, vegetable oils, active ingredients from Asia: each of our products tells a story of tradition and the work of the women behind it. This approach makes Nohèm a natural cosmetic brand inspired by global rituals, committed to women producers and respectful of the planet. Discover the active ingredients that make up our formulas on our Ingredients page. FAQ: Natural Beauty Rituals and Secrets What are the most widely used natural beauty ingredients in the world? Among the most iconic: shea butter and argan oils in Africa, rice water and green tea in Asia, or clays like rhassoul. All are valued for their proven benefits and natural origin. What is the beauty secret of African and Asian women? Beyond the ingredients, it is often the regularity and simplicity of the gestures. African rituals focus on raw and nourishing ingredients, while Asian rituals emphasize gentleness and consistency in daily care. How can you integrate a natural beauty ritual into your routine? Start with a simple gesture: a vegetable oil in the evening, a clay mask once a week, or a natural lotion daily. The essential thing is regularity, more than the quantity of products.

Skincare makeup is no longer just a passing trend. It reflects a profound shift in how we care for ourselves. Today, we no longer wear makeup simply to conceal imperfections, but to respect, protect, and support our skin every day.Why continue to choose between pretty and healthy, when you can have both? Behind this new generation of makeup lies a clear intention: formulas that enhance without cheating, that even out skin tone without suffocating, and that care for the skin, even after makeup removal. Welcome to the world of skincare-makeup, where clean beauty truly comes to life. What exactly is skincare makeup? Unlike conventional makeup, which is often rich in pigments and occlusive ingredients, skincare makeup focuses on affinity with the skin.Its promise? To enhance beauty while respecting the skin's natural balance . The big difference : here, we prioritize biomimetic ingredients, close to what the skin naturally recognizes. Who is it for? For sensitive, reactive skin, fragile eyes… and all those who want to prevent skin aging without damaging their skin. Skincare makeup does not mask the skin: it complements it. The key ingredients of skincare-makeup Marine assets: protection from the ocean The sea is a demanding environment. The organisms that live there have developed extraordinary resistance… and the skin loves that. The plankton flower, a concentrate of vitality Rich in antioxidants, plankton flower helps skin and eyelashes fight against pollution and oxidative stress. Its superpower : preventing premature aging, strengthening weakened eyelashes, and restoring radiance to tired complexions. A true natural boost, without any artifice. Vegetable oils: nourish, repair, add shine It's impossible to talk about skincare makeup without mentioning plant oils. They are what provide comfort, suppleness, and nourishment. Wild rose & musk rose oil Renowned for their regenerative properties, they are ideal for delicate areas such as the eye contour. Their action : to smooth fine lines, improve skin elasticity and help to even out skin texture under makeup. Jojoba oil: intelligent hydration Very similar to human sebum, it is easily absorbed, without leaving a greasy residue. The result: comfortable skin, shiny eyelashes, and hydration that lasts all day. Castor oil: the essential ingredient for eyelashes The undisputed star of eyelash care, castor oil fortifies, stimulates growth and strengthens the fiber from the root. Denser, longer, and above all, more resistant eyelashes, even after makeup removal. 💚 Nohèm's favorite Nohèm's Volume & Length Mascara combines these precious oils to coat the lashes, boost their natural growth, and offer buildable volume. Makeup that truly works, without compromise. Plant-based butters: softness and protection When skin feels tight or lips become dry, it is often plant-based butters that come to the rescue. Kokum butter : nourishing yet light, it protects dry skin without a sticky effect. Shea butter : a classic… and rightly so. It repairs, soothes and protects sensitive areas, such as the eyelids or lips. 💄 The secret to radiant complexions Nohèm's Red Tinted Blush Balm , our bestseller, combines these butters to subtly color the lips while protecting them from chapping. A simple yet essential step. Natural waxes: uncompromising hold Natural makeup can sometimes be temperamental. Plant-based waxes rise to the challenge, free from silicones and synthetic polymers. Carnauba wax & beeswax : they coat the lash, add volume and protect the fiber without a stiff effect. Sunflower seed wax : it offers a melting texture and good resistance to humidity. The result: makeup that lasts... while remaining gentle on the skin. Why switch to natural makeup-skincare? Choosing makeup-skincare is making a sustainable choice, for your skin as well as for the planet. Fewer irritations : goodbye to redness and feelings of discomfort at the end of the day. More comfort : textures that allow the skin to breathe. A more ethical approach : formulas that are often more respectful of the environment and your health. FAQ – Your questions about makeup-skincare Does skincare makeup replace a day cream?No. It complements your routine, but does not replace proper hydration on clean skin. Is it suitable for very sensitive eyes?Yes, and that's actually one of its major advantages. The formulas, based on vegetable oils and natural waxes, are designed to minimize irritation. How to recognize a true skincare makeup product?A glance at the INCI list is enough: the active ingredients (oils, butters, marine extracts) should appear among the first ingredients. Makeup that's truly good for you Skincare-enhanced makeup means the end of compromise between beauty and skin health. By choosing formulas rich in plant oils, nourishing butters, and marine actives, you transform every beauty step into a moment of self-care. Want to switch to hybrid beauty?Discover our mascaras, tinted balms and powders enriched with natural active ingredients, a range for sublimely beautiful skin… day after day, without ever betraying it.

A must-have in natural cosmetics, coconut oil is an ingredient with many benefits for the skin and hair. Used for centuries in Polynesian beauty rituals, this vegetable oil captivates with its sweet fragrance and exceptional nourishing properties. However, between its protective action and its high comedogenic rating, how should it be used daily? Whether for repairing dry ends, nourishing the body, or removing makeup from the face, coconut oil requires some discernment. In this guide, we explain how to integrate this lipidic treasure into your beauty routine according to your real needs and skin type. The Composition of Coconut Oil The uniqueness of this oil comes from its molecular structure. Unlike other fats, it is exceptionally rich in saturated fatty acids (about 90%), particularly lauric acid. Affinity with keratin: Coconut oil has a structure that allows it to envelop, protect, and coat the hair fiber and epidermis. Oxidative stability: Very little susceptible to oxidation, it retains its qualities for a long time, offering an application without rancid odor. Evolving texture: Solid below 24°C, it melts upon contact with skin warmth. This transition from solid to liquid state allows for precise dosing and transforms the care into a moment of mindfulness. The Multiple Benefits of Coconut Oil for the Body On the skin of the body, coconut oil acts as a true lipid shield. Its strength does not come from a complex formula, but from its natural ability to be emollient, softening, and soothing. It fills in the small deficiencies of the skin barrier to restore its original suppleness. Nourishing and Protective Action It is important to clarify a nuance: coconut oil does not "hydrate" in the strict sense, as it does not contain water. Its role is elsewhere, and it is fundamental. It is occlusive, meaning it forms a very thin protective veil on the surface of the epidermis. This veil "seals" the moisture already present in your skin, preventing it from evaporating throughout the day. This is why it is particularly effective: On dry and dehydrated skin: it provides the necessary fat to calm sensations of tightness. On rough areas: elbows, knees, or legs have thicker skin that tends to crack; coconut oil provides lasting comfort. After showering: this is the ideal moment. By applying it to still slightly damp skin, you trap bath water in your tissues, thus prolonging the feeling of softness. The Precious Ally for Feet Feet are often the neglected part of our routines, even though they bear the full weight of our days. In this area where the skin is naturally thicker and poor in sebaceous glands, coconut oil reveals its full restorative potential. It doesn't just nourish: its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties help maintain a healthy environment, thus protecting feet from minor daily discomforts. For a true moment of care, try applying it in the evening with a generous massage, then slipping your feet into cotton socks. During the night, the warmth will promote oil absorption to transform cracked heels into supple, regenerated skin upon waking. Coconut Oil on the Face: Be Careful, It's Very Comedogenic This is where the use of coconut oil requires the most discernment. In cosmetics, it is attributed a comedogenic rating of 4 out of 5. This means that its texture, very similar to human sebum, tends to clog pores and prevent the natural evacuation of impurities, which is why it is often not recommended for facial use. For dry skin: It can be a punctual ally, like a small protective refuge against extreme cold or wind, as it strengthens the skin barrier. For combination, oily, or reactive skin: Its richness can become a drawback. By remaining on the surface of the pores, it risks promoting the appearance of blackheads, small milia, or blemishes. More is not always better: skin that already tends to be shiny does not need this excess of saturated fat. For lipsFragile and devoid of sebaceous glands, our lips are the first victims of cold and wind. Coconut oil is a true emergency balm: it deposits a protective veil that repairs chapped lips and instantly restores suppleness to chapped smiles. The right gesture: If you love its softness but fear breakouts, use it only as a makeup remover oil. It's unbeatable for dissolving makeup (even waterproof). The secret is never to let it sit: massage, then rinse thoroughly with a gentle cleanser to remove all oily residue. How to Use Coconut Oil for Hair? If coconut oil is so famous for hair, it's thanks to lauric acid. Unlike many other oils that stay "on" the hair, this one has the rare ability to penetrate inside the fiber to nourish it from within. A shield before shampooing: Used as an "oil bath" on lengths and ends, it protects hair from the aggressions of limescale and cleansing. It smoothes the scales (cuticle), reduces frizz, and provides immediate shine. Suppleness and lightness: It brings life back to dull and tired hair. The secret is not to overdo it on the scalp, especially if your hair is fine, to avoid suffocating it or making it flat. Knowing its limits: It is important to remember that coconut oil nourishes and protects, but it does not miraculously "repair" a fiber broken or burned by chemical coloring. It supports the overall health of your hair and prevents future breakage by making it more elastic, but it does not replace lost proteins. It is a care of patience and prevention. How to Choose a Quality Oil? To guarantee the effectiveness of the active ingredients, always choose coconut oil that is: Virgin and cold-pressed: To preserve antioxidants. Certified Organic: To avoid pesticide residues. Unrefined: To retain its natural fragrance and intact virtues. Nohèm's Expertise: Just the Right Care At Nohèm, we carefully incorporate coconut oil into formulas designed to nourish without overloading: The ultra-nourishing lip balm: Gentle and long-lasting protection for fragile lips. Polynesian Nourishing and Beautifying Oil: Enriched with Coconut, Jojoba, and Tiare flower, it envelops the skin in a satin veil, inviting travel and letting go. FAQ: Additional Questions Does coconut oil make hair grow? It doesn't stimulate the bulb, but by protecting the lengths from breakage, it promotes longer and denser hair. Is it suitable for all skin types? No. It's perfect for the body and very dry skin, but not recommended for daily facial use on oily or acne-prone skin. How to avoid a greasy effect? Always apply your oil to slightly damp skin or hair. The natural emulsion will facilitate penetration. In conclusion, coconut oil is a valuable ally if adapted to your true needs. It is an invitation to slow down and return to a simpler, more natural, and more attentive beauty to our sensations.