Beauty
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Is Macadamia Shampoo?

Amanda R. Bell
Amanda R. Bell

Macadamia shampoo is a beauty item that uses oil derived from macadamia nuts for their natural UV protection and other hair benefits. These types of shampoos are typically marketed as all-natural, and rarely include any harsh chemicals. The shampoo works in the same manner as most other types of shampoo, and is considered ideal for the majority of hair types. While allergic reactions are rare from this product, those with any type of food allergy are often urged to test the product on a small portion of skin before using.

The primary ingredient in macadamia shampoo is oil from macadamia nuts. These nuts grow on trees throughout the South Pacific, and are well-known for both their health and beauty benefits. The trees primarily grow in Australia and Hawaii, as well as Brazil, Israel, Costa Rica and certain parts of the United States.

Argan oil is derived from the fruit of the native Moroccan Argan tree.
Argan oil is derived from the fruit of the native Moroccan Argan tree.

Macadamia shampoo provides natural protection from the sun, and the oils used in the shampoo are believed to be able to penetrate the hair shaft, providing optimal moisture and nutrients. The oil in the shampoo is rich with fatty acids, and is quite similar to the natural oil produced by the scalp. This makes the moisturizers of this shampoo not only easily absorbed by the hair, but also helps to cleanse the hair without causing the oil glands in the scalp to produce massive amounts of oil to replace what is removed.

The fatty acids in macadamia shampoo are easily absorbed by the hair.
The fatty acids in macadamia shampoo are easily absorbed by the hair.

Often marketed as all-natural, macadamia oil is the primary ingredient in these types of shampoos, but also important is what is not included. As macadamia shampoo typically relies on all-natural ingredients, it rarely include sulfates, a harsh chemical cleansing agent, or parabens, a type of preservative. In certain macadamia shampoos, argan oil is also included, which helps to improve the strength and health of the hair.

A rich macadamia oil shampoo may help tame curly hair and make it look less frizzy.
A rich macadamia oil shampoo may help tame curly hair and make it look less frizzy.

This type of shampoo is used like any other; the hair is wet down, the macadamia shampoo is worked through and then rinsed. In most cases, it is recommended that a macadamia conditioner is used after washing. Studies have found that many macadamia shampoos help to prevent fading in color-treated hair, and many people have found that this shampoo works well for straight and curly hair alike. As the macadamia oil provides healthy yet lightweight moisture, those with dry, damaged hair and those with oily hair can typically use it with good results.

Excessive itchiness may be a sign of an allergic reaction to shampoo.
Excessive itchiness may be a sign of an allergic reaction to shampoo.

In general, macadamia shampoo does not cause allergic reactions in people with nut allergies. While macadamia is often referred to as a nut, it is technically a seed. Despite this, those with food allergies or who have had allergic reactions to natural beauty products in the past are encouraged to test the product on a small patch of skin before using. This will help to ensure that no unusual allergic reaction occurs.

Discussion Comments

turquoise

I love macadamia nut shampoo. My hair is very damaged. It's color treated and I use hot styling tools every day. Macadamia shampoo keeps my hair healthy despite all this. I don't know what I would do without it.

candyquilt

Macadamia shampoo is very moisturizing but I don't think I can use it regularly. I have normal hair and this shampoo leaves my hair and scalp greasy. My hair is soft and shiny, but it doesn't feel clean. I might use a different shampoo and buy a macadamia hair conditioner or mask instead. I think the conditioner will be better because I won't be applying it to my scalp.

Also, I want to mention that all macadamia shampoos aren't great. I think that a macadamia shampoo should be fairly natural with few ingredients. But the one I have has a very long ingredients list with many items I can't pronounce. And the macadamia seed oil is the twentieth ingredient on the list. This is not really my idea of a natural macadamia shampoo.

stoneMason

Macadamia shampoo has to be the best shampoo ever for dry and damaged hair. I have never used a shampoo before that improved my hair in one single wash. I am so impressed with macadamia shampoo and I'm so sad that I didn't discover macadamia hair products before. It's such a luxurious shampoo and the packaging is equally amazing. I feel spoiled! This shampoo is a keeper for sure.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Argan oil is derived from the fruit of the native Moroccan Argan tree.
      By: cut
      Argan oil is derived from the fruit of the native Moroccan Argan tree.
    • The fatty acids in macadamia shampoo are easily absorbed by the hair.
      By: Valua Vitaly
      The fatty acids in macadamia shampoo are easily absorbed by the hair.
    • A rich macadamia oil shampoo may help tame curly hair and make it look less frizzy.
      By: indiraswork
      A rich macadamia oil shampoo may help tame curly hair and make it look less frizzy.
    • Excessive itchiness may be a sign of an allergic reaction to shampoo.
      By: starush
      Excessive itchiness may be a sign of an allergic reaction to shampoo.