How to Use 100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil for Face and Hair

By The Ordinary | Clinical Formulations with Integrity | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to use The Ordinary's 100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil to hydrate and add radiance to your face and hair, with step-by-step guidance and common mistakes to avoid.

Quick Answer

Use 2–3 drops of 100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil as the last step in your evening skincare routine, after moisturizer, or apply a few drops to damp hair ends for shine and softness.

Why Marula Oil Works for Both Face and Hair

Marula oil is rich in antioxidants, which help support skin health and promote a radiant complexion. Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, making it suitable for most skin types, including combination and oily skin. For hair, it helps smooth the cuticle and reduce frizz without weighing strands down.

How to Choose Between Face and Hair Use

The same bottle works for both, but the amount and application method differ. For the face, less is more—2–3 drops is enough. For hair, you can use 3–5 drops depending on length and thickness. Avoid using the same dropper for both to prevent transferring hair products or bacteria back into the bottle.

How to Apply 100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil

1. Prep Your Skin or Hair: For face: Cleanse and apply water-based serums and moisturizer first. For hair: Start with clean, towel-damp hair. Applying oil on dry skin without prior hydration can reduce absorption.
2. Dispense the Right Amount: Use the dropper to place 2–3 drops into your palm for the face, or 3–5 drops for hair. Warm the oil between your hands. More oil does not mean more hydration—excess can clog pores or leave hair greasy.
3. Press, Don't Rub: For face: Gently press the oil into your skin, especially on dry areas. For hair: Smooth the oil through the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the scalp. Rubbing can disturb your moisturizer layer; pressing helps the oil absorb evenly.
4. Use at the Right Time: Apply the oil as the final step in your evening routine. For hair, use it as a leave-in treatment before styling or before bed. Using oil before water-based products can block absorption of lighter serums.

Product Facts

100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil: Rich in antioxidants to help support skin health. This means marula oil can help protect your skin from environmental stressors while providing lightweight hydration.
100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil