Formulations with Mokaté® Kalahari Melon Oil

Without a doubt, Kalahari Melon Oil is very different from any other plant oil. It is sometimes referred to as a ‘carrier oil’, used in the formulation of cosmetics or personal care products. In reality it is much more than that! The extreme ecosystem where the plant grows means it has evolved in a way that allows its seeds to survive the intense environmental stressors of the Kalahari Desert. Once the melon disintegrates and leaves its seeds behind, they lie exposed to the desert sun, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C. It could take years before those seeds come into contact with water again!

As a result, the oil within the kernel of the seed is incredibly stable. Therefore, it’s a formulator’s dream to work with, because it’s packed with antioxidants and stabilising compounds.

The Key Benefits of Kalahari Melon Oil

The properties of the oil which, in combination, gives it these unique properties, are:

1. High in Linoleic Acid, an omega 6 essential fatty acids (EFAs), sometimes referred to as “Vitamin F”. By itself, this molecule can oxidise easily, but in our Kalahari Melon oil the molecule is stabilised by other, complimentary molecules. More on that, below.
2. Very high levels of Vitamin E and Phytosterols. These molecules play a stabilising role for the oil, preventing oxidation of the Linoleic Acid and other fatty acids present in the oil.
3. Overall stability. We performed an oxidative stress test (or, “Rancimat” test), and found that our Mokaté® Kalahari Melon Oil is 5 and 10 times more stable than Rosehip oil and Sunflower Oil, respectively. This is a completely unique property among carrier oils, and sets Mokaté® Kalahari Melon oil apart as a Natural Active oil.

What role does it play in personal care products?

With such properties, Kalahari Melon Oil posesses incredible beneficial properties for the skin and hair and therefore plays an important role in the formulation of personal care products, for example:

Moisturizing

Firstly, Kalahari Melon Oils rich composition of fatty acids, which help to hydrate and moisturize the skin. They create a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss, keeping the skin soft and supple. Kalahari melon oil’s high concentration of stable Linoleic Acid, which locks in moisture, makes it an excellent choice for formulators.

Emollient

Vegetable oils act as emollients, which means they soften and smooth the skin by filling in gaps between skin cells. This helps to improve the skin’s texture and appearance, making it feel smoother and more comfortable.

Nutrient delivery

Kalahari melon oil contains high levels of vitamins, antioxidants, and other nutrients that are beneficial for the skin and hair. These nutrients are easily absorbed into the skin, providing nourishment and boosting overall skin health. For example, Kalahari melon oil is especially high in vitamin E, which helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

Carrier for active ingredients

Although Kalahari melon oil has it’s own skincare-active proeprties, it can also serve as a carrier for other active ingredients in personal care products. It helps to solubilize and deliver active compounds to the skin, increasing their efficacy. This is particularly useful for products containing essential oils or other bioactive compounds with therapeutic benefits.

Texture and consistency

Kalahari melon oil contributes to the texture and consistency of personal care products. It can add a special richness and smoothness to creams, lotions, and serums, improving the absorption and feel on the skin.

Hair conditioning

Kalahari melon oil is used to condition and nourish, which leads to softer and smoother hair. Especially popular in African haircare products, the oil helps to soften hair and repair damage, reduce frizz, and enhance shine.

Conclusion

Overall, Kalahari melon oil is a versatile ingredient that offers a wide range of benefits in personal care formulations. It boosts moisture retention and nourishes the skin, while also conditioning and enhancing the hair. Its natural, gmo-free origin and compatibility with the skin make them popular choices for formulators seeking to create effective and gentle products.

The best products with Kalahari melon oil in 2024

Below is a list of some of the most popular products in the market that contain Kalahari melon oil:

1. VOTARY – SUPER SEED FACIAL OIL
   • Votary’s Super Seed Facial Oil is a potent blend of natural oils, including Kalahari melon oil. Its formulated to nourish and hydrate the skin. Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, this luxurious oil helps restore balance and vitality to the natural complexion.
2. FENTY – TREATZ HYDRATING + STRENGTHENING LIP OIL
   • Fenty’s Treatz Hydrating + Strengthening Lip Oil is a conditioning treatment infused with Kalahari melon seed oil to replenish and protect the lips. Formulated with a blend of nourishing oils, it helps improve overall health and resilience of the lips.
3. DRUNK ELEPHANT – LALA RETRO WHIPPED CREAM
   • Drunk Elephant’s Lala Retro Whipped Cream is infused with Kalahari melon seed oil and other nourishing ingredients. This luxurious cream provides intense hydration and helps strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, leaving it soft, smooth, and rejuvenated. Perfect for dry or dehydrated skin in need of a nourishing boost.
4. DRUNK ELEPHANT – SLAAI MAKEUP-MELTING BUTTER CLEANSER
   • Drunk Elephant’s Slaai Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser is formulated with Kalahari melon seed oil and fruit extracts, making it a gentle yet effective cleanser. This innovative cleanser melts away makeup, dirt, and impurities while nourishing the skin, leaving it clean, soft, and refreshed. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
5. AVEDA – smooth infusion™ style-prep smoother™
   • Aveda’s smooth infusion™ style-prep smoother™ is a lightweight styling cream infused with Kalahari melon seed oil and plant extracts. This versatile product helps protect hair from heat styling damage while reducing frizz and enhancing shine. Ideal for achieving smooth, sleek styles with long-lasting hold and manageability.
6. African Botanics – Marula Résurrection Eye Cream
   • African Botanics incorporates Kalahari melon seed oil into its Marula Résurrection Eye Cream, most likely to stabilise the formulation. It’s a wonderful, revitalizing treatment designed to reduce the appearance around the delicate eye area. Enriched with botanical extracts, this luxurious cream delivers targeted hydration and nourishment.