The Role of Marula Oil in Alleviating Photoaging: Insights into its Bioactive Components

Photoaging, caused by prolonged UV exposure, accelerates skin aging through oxidative stress, collagen degradation, and inflammation. With growing consumer demand for natural and sustainable anti-aging solutions, marula oil has gained attention for its potential in mitigating photoaging. Derived from Sclerocarya birrea, marula oil is rich in fatty acids (oleic and palmitic acids) and antioxidants like vitamin C and E. This review investigates marula oil’s bioactive components and their mechanisms of action in alleviating photoaging, focusing on its moisturizing, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties. Moreover, clinical studies examine its ability to improve skin hydration, enhance barrier function, and inhibit enzymes associated with collagen degradation. Despite its promise as a cosmeceutical, long-term studies are necessary to explore its sustained efficacy, molecular pathways, and potential synergy with other natural ingredients.