OUR HISTORY

Nanikoa (Hawaiian for Beautiful Warrior) was founded by Monty and Christine, two innovators dedicated to creating simple, effective, and sustainable skincare. Monty, a retired military officer from Hawaii, grew up using kukui and coconut oil as natural skin protectants but found kukui too light, while coconut oil was too greasy. Christine, with a background in molecular biology and veterinary medicine, applied her scientific expertise to craft the perfect formula. Their journey led to the Nanikoa formula, a combination of kukui oil, marula oil, and shea butter, designed to hydrate, protect, and restore without unnecessary additives.
Rooted in science and tradition, this unique formulation delivers deep nourishment and skin barrier support. Kukui oil penetrates to soothe and repair, marula oil provides long-lasting hydration and antioxidant protection, and shea butter seals in moisture while reinforcing the skin’s natural defenses.
Beyond skincare, Nanikoa stands for sustainability. The lotion industry generates approximately 115 million pounds of plastic waste annually—enough for a line of 16 oz lotion containers to circle the Earth nearly 4 1/2 times. This contributes to microplastic pollution, harming our oceans and ecosystems. That’s why Nanikoa uses glass bottles, reducing waste while delivering high-performance, eco-conscious skincare.
Scientifically crafted. Sustainably made. Pure skincare with a pure conscience. Each batch is hand crafted to ensure the quality stays true.

NANIKOA uses three ingredients (along with distilled water) in combination can create an ultra-nourishing skin treatment that hydrates, heals, and protects. Here’s how:

  1. Marula Oil → Deep Hydration & Anti-Aging

    • Help replenish lost moisture in dry skin.

    • Provides a boost of antioxidants to protect against environmental stressors.

    • Ideal for improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines.

  2. Kukui Oil → Soothing & Fast Absorption

    • Quickly absorbs into the skin, helping to deliver nutrients deep within.

    • Reduces inflammation, redness, and irritation (great for eczema and sunburn).

    • Lightweight, making it perfect for layering under heavier ingredients.

  3. Shea Butter → Intense Moisture Lock & Protection

    • Seals in hydration from the oils.

    • Strengthens the skin barrier and prevents moisture loss.

    • Help repair dry, chapped, or damaged skin.

If you’re looking for a lightweight daytime moisturizer, kukui oil is a great base. Marula oil brings long-lasting hydration and anti-aging properties, while shea butter acts as the ultimate moisture lock, making it perfect for extremely dry or barrier-compromised skin. Add Vitamin E, Pure Water, Vegetable Glycerin and Distilled Essential Oils, you have a product that will perform.

Other Ingredients:

Stearic Acid: Derived from Palm Oil. Used as an emulsifier and thickening agent

BTMS 50 (Behentrimonium Methosulfate): Is a conditioning agent synthesized from the Behenic Acid found in Colza (Canola) seeds (Combined with 50% emulsifying wax)

Phenoxyethanol: Preservative approved by EU and California (toughest standards) .8% EU standards.

Bottom Line-It works!