Mongongo Oil
mon-GONG-oh OYL
What Is Mongongo Oil?
A nutrient-dense oil from the mongongo tree native to southern Africa. Rich in vitamin E, linoleic acid, and eleostearic acid, it provides UV protection and deep conditioning.
Source: Mongongo tree nuts (Schinziophyton rautanenii)
Origin: Natural
Also known as: Schinziophyton Rautanenii Kernel Oil, Manketti Oil
What Does Mongongo Oil Do to Your Hair?
Provides deep moisturization while offering natural UV protection from its unique fatty acid profile including eleostearic acid. Repairs and strengthens dry, damaged hair with essential fatty acids and vitamin E.
Best For
Dry hair, damaged hair, sun-exposed hair, thick hair, curly hair
Not Recommended For
Fine hair (heavy), oily hair
Concentration Matters
1-15% in hair products
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Very safe with no known adverse effects. Used traditionally in Africa for centuries. Rich in vitamin E and unique fatty acids that provide natural photoprotection.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA considers safe for cosmetic use.
EWG Score: 1/10
HairAide Verdict
A specialty African oil with the unique benefit of natural UV protection. Excellent for hair that gets a lot of sun exposure. Heavier than some alternatives, so best for medium to thick hair.
Products That Contain Mongongo Oil
Hair oils, deep conditioners, sun-protection hair products, leave-in treatments
Alternatives to Mongongo Oil
If you want to avoid Mongongo Oil, look for products with these ingredients instead:
Argan Oil, Marula Oil, Moringa Oil
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Mongongo Oil has a safety rating of 9/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Very safe with no known adverse effects. Used traditionally in Africa for centuries. Rich in vitamin E and unique fatty acids that provide natural photoprotection.
Mongongo Oil is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Mongongo Oil is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Mongongo Oil include: Argan Oil, Marula Oil, Moringa Oil
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