Murumuru butter: Benefits for skin and hair
Discover the incredible benefits of murumuru butter for skin and hair health.
Murumuru butter, or murumuru seed butter, originates from the Brazilian Amazon region – specifically, from the Astrocaryum murumuru palm tree, native to the Amazon rainforest vegetation.
The butter is extracted from the seeds of the palm tree and is used to moisturize the skin and hair and also as an alternative to coconut oil and cocoa butter in cooking.
Murumuru butter can be found in lip balms, creams, body butter, scrubs, and lotions. It has also recently become popular in hair products, thanks to its moisturizing and moisturizing properties.
The incredible benefits of murumuru butter for skin and hair come from its rich and nutritious composition. It contains lauric acid, myristic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid and is rich in vitamin A fatty acids. Among other properties, the butter has anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antiseptic action.
Additionally, murumuru butter is hypoallergenic and non- comedogenic – meaning it can be used by those with sensitive and acne-prone skin, as lauric acid contains antimicrobial properties that help fight pimples and blackheads (or comedones).
A natural remedy for dry skin
Since murumuru penetrates the deep layers of the skin, it can repair the skin and provide the necessary nutrients and protection against free radical damage and sun spots. The essential fatty acids present in the butter also help improve the texture of the skin by retaining moisture and forming a protective layer.
Benefits of murumuru butter for skin and hair
1. Hydrates and nourishes
Murumuru butter is an excellent emollient known for its moisturizing properties. Healthy skin has a lipid-rich skin barrier that seals in moisture, while dry skin typically has lower levels of fat. Therefore, creams and lotions rich in fats can improve your skin’s hydration.
Murumuru butter has a similar fatty acid profile to cocoa butter and is rich in medium- and long-chain fatty acids, such as lauric acid and myristic acid, which may help restore your skin’s moisture barrier, according to studies. For best results, apply murumuru butter immediately after bathing, when your skin absorbs water best.
2. Restores hair elasticity
Murumuru butter helps hair regain elasticity by deeply moisturizing it. It improves hair flexibility and strength, along with protecting it from environmental damage. Additionally, its antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic properties work effectively to prevent hair breakage.
3. Shapes curls and moisturizes frizzy hair
A lack of moisture can be detrimental to frizzy hair. The hair shaft contains an outer layer known as the cuticle. When hair is dry, the cuticle becomes rough and swells, resulting in a less smooth texture.
Murumuru butter is high in lauric acid, a fatty acid penetrating the hair shaft. According to one study, this allows for better moisture retention and sealing of the cuticle, resulting in softer, more hydrated hair. Additionally, the product naturally protects against sun damage, heat, and other harmful compounds.
To notice the effects, apply murumuru butter to your hair for 2 to 3 minutes in the shower or use as a moisturizing mask overnight.
4. Does not clog pores
If you find coconut oil too harsh for your skin, murumuru butter may be a good alternative. Compared to other moisturizing oils like cocoa butter and coconut oil, it is less comedogenic, meaning it is less likely to clog your pores and cause acne or blackheads.
It can also help soothe the skin and reinforce its natural moisture barrier without causing breakouts, a common problem in acne-prone skin. However, it is essential to consult a dermatologist before using any product on your skin, even if it is natural.
5. Reduces wrinkles and expression lines
Keeping your skin hydrated keeps the skin membrane healthy and can slow the progression of fine lines and wrinkles. It can also help reduce the appearance of expression lines.
This natural butter is also rich in vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant responsible for healthy skin, hair, and eyes. Vitamin A is known for its anti-aging effects on the skin, such as increasing cell turnover and protecting against ultraviolet (UV) damage, according to studies.
6. Adds shine to hair
Shine is a sign of healthy hair. To achieve healthy hair shine, it is important to keep your hair moisturized and free from damage and breakage. Light does not reflect well off damaged hair, resulting in a dull appearance.
Given its impressive hydrating abilities, applying murumuru butter or other fat-rich conditioners can seal moisture into the hair shaft, enhancing its natural shine.
7. Soothes eczema
Eczema is a skin condition characterized by dry, irritated skin. People with the condition are more likely to have lower levels of fatty acids and ceramides in their skin.
Using murumuru butter can improve eczema symptoms by moisturizing the skin and restoring its natural moisture barrier.
8. It is ideal for sensitive skin
People with sensitive skin often have lower levels of lipids in their skin membranes. This can result in tightness, pain, and increased penetration of irritants like fragrances and alcohol, both of which are found in many skin care products.
Using a gentle, high-fat cream with minimal ingredients, such as murumuru butter, can help restore your skin barrier without causing further irritation. Just be sure to read the ingredient label to ensure the product doesn’t contain any added ingredients that could irritate your skin.