Ingredient

Buriti Oil

Mauritia flexuosa

Once an Amazonian secret, buriti oil is now world-renowned for its many skin benefits that go far beyond hydration.

What is buriti?

The buriti palm tree, sometimes referred to as the ‘Tree of Life’, can reach 25 metres (82 feet) in height and is easily found in the dense forests of northern Brazil. It loves humid environments and flooded areas like the Cerrado, lowlands and swamps. Locals use all parts of the tree: the leaves for handicrafts, the pulp for producing oil, juice, and sweets, and the seeds for creating buttons and even jewelry.

Where does Lush source buriti oil?

Lush UK, Croatia, Japan and Australia* purchase this oil from a supplier based in Brazil called CitroBio. They work toward sustainable development in the Amazon, aiming to preserve the environment while supporting people who depend on nature for their livelihoods. By providing comprehensive technical support, they enable farmers and partner communities to earn a living by harvesting fruits and seeds rather than timber, which inevitably encourages forest preservation.

The oil is produced by families in the north of Brazil, specifically in the Acre, Piauí, and Pará states. CitroBio supports them throughout every stage of production, providing them with all sorts of equipment, including adequate protective workwear and footwear.

Buriti is harvested during the fruiting season. In the state of Acre, it takes place from October to January, in the state of Piauí from September to February, and in the state of Pará from March to August. The fruits are harvested from the ground or directly from the palm tree. Some are deliberately left behind for the regeneration of the species and to feed wild animals.

*With several manufacturing sites across the globe, information may vary depending on where your Lush products were made.

What are the benefits of buriti oil for the skin?

• Rich in oleic acids, the oil moisturises and has fast-acting emollient properties that make the skin really soft and supple.
• It sinks deeply into the skin without blocking up pores.
• High in beta-carotene, an antioxidant, it helps protect the skin and keeps it firm, smooth and radiant.
• Soothing, it is often recommended for itchy and irritated skin and scalp.

Is buriti oil a sunscreen?

Buriti oil has an orange tint. This is due to the high levels of carotenoids in the oil, even more so than carrots themselves. These carotenoids give the oil great benefits in cosmetics, especially when facing the sun. According to studies*, the oil can offer some natural protection against UV rays, but should be combined with other, stronger sunscreens. It also helps relieve the skin after sun exposure.

* source: Parente, L.B. et al. In vitro antioxidant activity and SPF determination in dermocosmetic formulations containing buriti oil (Mauritia flexuosa L.). Research, Society and Development, [S. l.], v. 11, n. 10.