Why is monoi addictive?

At once restorative, gentle, softening and nourishing, monoï can be used from head to toe. In no time at all, you'll find yourself transformed, whether for your hair or skin. Monoi oil has been used for thousands of years for its many virtues.

What is monoi oil?

The Tiaré flower is the emblem of Polynesia. Also known as Gardenia tahitensis, it is the flower of a small tree belonging to the Rubiaceae family. True monoi is made from 90% coconut oil, to which macerated tiare flowers are added. Its original name is Monoî de Tahiti.

The benefits of monoi

For centuries monoi oil is used daily for baby massage, hair care, pharmacopoeia and traditional rituals. To give you an idea of its benefits, mix it with a little sand for a highly effective body scrub. Contrary to popular belief, monoi oil is not just a tanning oil. It has many qualities. Among other things, it is nourishing and soothing for both skin and hair. It helps protect the epidermis from external aggressions. You can use it all year round, summer and winter alike. Say goodbye to crocodile skin. What's more, you'll have the sweet scent of the islands to accompany you and warm your heart. In summer, monoi oil helps prevent dehydration caused by sun exposure. That's exactly what monoi oil does during the summer months. Mind you, we're not saying that monoi oil can replace sunscreen - far from it. But it does facilitate tanning and prevents the skin from drying out. You can also use it as an after-sun lotion.

Benefits for the skin: how to use it

You can add a few drops of monoi oil to your bath water or body lotion, especially if you're afraid of the "oily" effect in winter. You'll easily regain soft, supple skin. You can also choose to apply it to your face or bust, as a day or night treatment. This product is ideal for people with dry, damaged skin. Monoi oil will help combat chapping and cracking, as it is highly moisturizing. In general, we recommend applying it to damp skin. This facilitates penetration.

Tanning benefits: advice for use

Apply it to your skin in summer when you're most exposed to the sun. Monoi oil will moisturize your skin and make tanning much easier. Thanks to its soothing properties, you can also use it in your after-sun care. It will bring you softness while nourishing your skin.

Benefits for the hair

You can use monoi oil as a balm for your hair. It will nourish and care for your hair. It will repair and restore shine to your damaged hair. Leave it on overnight under a warm towel. It's perfect for frizzy or afro hair. For dry, split and brittle hair, we also recommend using monoi oil. Polynesian women are accustomed to using it as is, without rinsing, to protect their hair from seawater and the sun. You can, however, use it as a mask, leaving it on for at least thirty minutes before shampooing gently. For damaged ends, prepare a sheathing and repairing mask. This will make detangling much easier. You can also use your monoi oil as an after-shampoo, especially if you have fine hair.

A few homemade recipes using monoi oil

Tanning oil

Prepare a tanning oil by mixing monoi oil (30 ml), carrot oil macerate (20 ml), 25 drops of geranium essential oil, 15 drops of lavender oil and 10 drops of ylang ylang essential oil. With this blend, you can head out into the sun to relax and coat your body.

Softening oil

To soften your skin, mix 20 ml of monoi oil with 15 drops of rose geranium essential oil. Add 5 drops of mandarin essential oil. Pour into warm bath water. You'll enjoy a moment of relaxation while softening your skin.

Protective hair balm

You can make your own hair balm by mixing 30 ml monoi oil with 20 ml shea butter. Apply to the entire scalp, paying particular attention to the length and ends.