Trader Joe’s Marula Oil Vs. Drunk Elephant: In-Depth Differences

I’m always on the hunt for skincare that delivers without breaking the bank. 

Trader Joe’s Marula Facial Oil and Drunk Elephant’s Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil promise hydration and radiance, but their price tags couldn’t be more different. 

In this article, I’ll share my experience using both, weigh their pros and cons, and help you decide which is worth your money. 

From texture to results, I’ve tested them head-to-head to see if the luxury option justifies its cost or if the budget-friendly dupe steals the show.

Comparison Table: Trader Joe’s Vs. Drunk Elephant Marula Oil

My Skincare Journey with Marula Oil

I’ll admit, I was skeptical about facial oils at first. With my combination skin—oily in the T-zone, dry on my cheeks—I worried oils would leave me looking like a greaseball or clog my pores. 

But after hearing buzz about marula oil’s hydrating and anti-aging benefits, I decided to give it a try. 

Marula oil, derived from the seeds of the marula tree in Africa, is packed with fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins C and E. 

It’s said to moisturize, protect against free radicals, and even help with fine lines. Sounds like a dream, right?

I started with Trader Joe’s Marula Facial Oil because, at $6.99 for 0.85 ounces, it was an easy way to test the waters. 

The sleek black glass bottle and dropper made it feel fancier than its price suggested. 

I applied a few drops after my nighttime moisturizer, patting it gently onto my face. 

The oil absorbed quickly, leaving my skin soft and dewy without a hint of greasiness. 

Over a week, I noticed my dry patches were less flaky, and my complexion looked brighter. 

I even used it on my cuticles and hair ends, which felt like a bonus for such a budget buy.

Curious about the hype around Drunk Elephant’s Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil, I splurged on the 1-ounce bottle for $68. 

The packaging screamed luxury—opaque white bottle, precise dropper, and a vibe that made my bathroom counter look Instagram-worthy. 

I used it the same way: a few drops at night over my moisturizer. 

The texture was slightly thicker than Trader Joe’s, but it sank in just as fast. 

My skin felt plump and hydrated, and I swear my fine lines looked softer after a couple of weeks. 

But was it $60 better? That’s what I set out to figure out.

What Makes Marula Oil Special?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why marula oil is such a big deal. 

It’s rich in oleic acid (omega-9), which helps repair the skin’s moisture barrier, and linoleic acid (omega-6), which is great for acne-prone skin. 

The antioxidants—vitamin E, flavonoids, and polyphenols—fight free radicals, which can accelerate aging. 

Marula oil is also lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, making it suitable for most skin types. 

Both Trader Joe’s and Drunk Elephant use pure marula oil, but their processing methods and branding set them apart.

Pros and Cons of Trader Joe’s Marula Facial Oil

Pros:

• Wallet-Friendly Price: At $6.99, this oil is a steal. I can use it generously on my face, hands, and even hair without feeling like I’m burning cash. For the price of one Drunk Elephant bottle, I could buy nearly ten of these. It’s perfect for skincare newbies or anyone who wants to experiment without committing to a luxury price tag.
• Simple and Effective: The ingredient list is as clean as it gets: 100% cold-pressed marula seed oil. No fragrances, no additives, just the good stuff. I love that it’s versatile—I’ve mixed it with my moisturizer, used it alone, or dabbed it on dry elbows. My skin feels hydrated and looks radiant, especially during harsh winter months.
• Fast Absorption: This oil sinks into my skin like a dream. I apply it at night, and by morning, there’s no greasy residue on my pillow. It’s lightweight enough for daytime use under makeup, giving me that “glazed donut” glow without looking oily.
• Sleek Packaging: The dark glass bottle protects the oil from UV light, which can degrade its potency. The dropper is precise, so I don’t waste a drop. It feels like a high-end product, which makes the low price even more satisfying.

Cons:

• Limited Availability: Trader Joe’s doesn’t have an online store, so you’re stuck hunting for this in their physical locations or on Amazon, where prices can vary. I’ve had moments of panic when my local store was out of stock, and that inconsistency is a bummer.
• Subtle Scent Concerns: While it’s marketed as fragrance-free, I’ve noticed a faint earthy smell that’s not my favorite. It’s not overpowering and fades quickly, but if you’re sensitive to scents, it might bug you. Some users even reported a “blueberry” scent, though I didn’t pick up on that.
• Occasional Quality Issues: I’ve read reviews about “floaters” or white particles in some bottles, possibly due to temperature changes causing natural waxes to solidify. I haven’t had this issue, but it’s made me inspect each bottle carefully before buying. It’s a minor trust hiccup for an otherwise stellar product.

Pros and Cons of Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil

Pros:

• Premium Quality: Drunk Elephant uses a patented unheated water extraction process, which they claim preserves more antioxidants and nutrients. My skin felt noticeably softer and more plump after a few weeks, and I could see a difference in my fine lines. It’s a high-performing oil that lives up to its luxury billing.
• Anti-Aging Benefits: This oil is packed with polyphenols—more than in dark chocolate or green tea, according to Drunk Elephant. I noticed my skin looked brighter and more even-toned, which is a win for my 30-something complexion. It’s like a daily dose of youth in a bottle.
• Versatile Application: Drunk Elephant suggests mixing this oil with their serums, moisturizers, or even foundation for a dewy look. I tried it with my liquid foundation, and it gave me a radiant finish without separating. It’s also great for soothing skin after retinol or acids, which is a game-changer for sensitive types.
• Luxurious Experience: From the chic packaging to the silky texture, this oil feels indulgent. The dropper is precise, and the opaque bottle protects the oil’s integrity. It’s the kind of product that makes your skincare routine feel like a spa moment.

Cons:

• Eye-Watering Price: At $68 for 1 ounce, this oil is a serious investment. I cringed every time I used it, wondering if I was wasting money when cheaper alternatives exist. For the price, I expected miracles, but the results weren’t drastically better than Trader Joe’s.
• Slightly Thicker Texture: While it absorbs quickly, the oil is a tad thicker than Trader Joe’s, which might not suit oily skin types. I didn’t mind it, but if you prefer ultra-light oils, this could feel heavier than expected.
• Brand Premium: Let’s be real: part of the cost is the Drunk Elephant name. The oil is pure marula, just like Trader Joe’s, so you’re paying for branding and marketing. If budget is a concern, this can feel like an unnecessary splurge.

Head-to-Head: My Experience Testing Both

To get a fair comparison, I did a side-by-side test for two weeks. 

I applied Trader Joe’s oil on the left side of my face and Drunk Elephant on the right, using three drops of each after my nighttime moisturizer. 

Both oils absorbed well, but Drunk Elephant felt slightly richer, leaving my skin a touch more plump. 

Trader Joe’s was lighter and gave a dewy glow that I loved for daytime. 

By morning, both sides of my face felt hydrated, and I couldn’t tell a huge difference in texture or radiance.

I also tested their versatility. I mixed Trader Joe’s oil with my body lotion for dry knees and elbows, and it worked like a charm. 

Drunk Elephant’s oil shone when I used it as an overnight treatment after a retinol session—my skin was calm and hydrated, with no redness. 

For hair, both smoothed my split ends, but Trader Joe’s was my go-to because I could use it generously without guilt.

Scent-wise, Trader Joe’s was nearly odorless, while Drunk Elephant had a subtle nutty smell that I didn’t mind but didn’t love. 

Packaging was a tie—both bottles are functional and protect the oil, though Drunk Elephant’s white bottle looks more luxe. 

Price, of course, was the biggest differentiator. 

Trader Joe’s felt like a no-brainer for daily use, while Drunk Elephant was a treat I reserved for special occasions.

Also Read: My Thoughts On Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream

Why Trader Joe’s Feels Like a Dupe

Skincare fans, including PureWow creator Matthew Boyd, have called Trader Joe’s Marula Facial Oil an “exact dupe” for Drunk Elephant’s version. 

After my testing, I agree. Both are 100% marula oil, delivering hydration, antioxidants, and a radiant glow. 

The main difference lies in Drunk Elephant’s extraction process and branding, which may preserve slightly more nutrients but doesn’t justify the $61 price gap for most users. 

Trader Joe’s offers nearly identical results at a fraction of the cost, making it a standout for budget-conscious shoppers.

When Drunk Elephant Shines

Drunk Elephant’s oil has its moments. If you’re loyal to their “skincare cocktail” philosophy—mixing their products for maximum efficacy—this oil integrates seamlessly. 

It’s also a better pick if you’re targeting anti-aging or need a soothing layer after harsh actives like retinol. 

The brand’s clean beauty ethos (no essential oils, silicones, or fragrances) and dermatologist-tested formula appeal to sensitive skin types. 

Plus, the luxury factor can’t be ignored—it’s a mood-lifter when you want to pamper yourself.

Real-Life Scenarios: Which Oil Wins?

Let’s break it down by lifestyle. If you’re a busy parent or student on a budget, Trader Joe’s is your MVP. 

Its low price means you can slather it on without wincing, and it’s versatile enough for face, hair, and body. 

I’ve used it to tame flyaways before a Zoom call, and it’s a lifesaver for dry winter skin.

For beauty enthusiasts who invest in high-end skincare, Drunk Elephant might be worth it. 

Its anti-aging claims and compatibility with other Drunk Elephant products make it a staple for those chasing a flawless complexion.

I also considered skin types. My combination skin loved both, but oily skin might prefer Trader Joe’s lighter texture. 

Dry or aging skin could benefit from Drunk Elephant’s richer formula, especially for fine lines. 

Sensitive skin? Both are gentle, but Drunk Elephant’s antimicrobial properties give it a slight edge for acne-prone folks.

Tips for Using Marula Oil Like a Pro

Start with a clean face—marula oil works best when it can penetrate properly. I apply it after cleansing and moisturizing, using 2-3 drops to avoid overdoing it. 

Pat, don’t rub, to help it absorb evenly. For extra hydration, mix it with your moisturizer or layer it over a serum. 

If you’re using it in the morning, follow with sunscreen to protect the oil’s antioxidants. Store both oils in a cool, dark place to prevent degradation. 

I keep mine in a drawer to avoid sunlight exposure.

The Science Behind Marula Oil

Marula oil’s magic lies in its composition. Oleic acid (about 70-78% of the oil) enhances penetration, making it a great carrier for other skincare ingredients. 

Linoleic acid (4-7%) balances oil production, which is why it’s suitable for oily skin. 

The antioxidants—vitamin E and polyphenols—neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress that leads to wrinkles. 

Studies, like one from Healthline, suggest marula oil’s antimicrobial properties can help with acne-causing bacteria, though it’s not a cure-all. 

Both oils deliver these benefits, but Drunk Elephant’s unheated extraction might retain a bit more potency.

Addressing the Hype: What Others Say

Skincare pros like celebrity aesthetician Joshua Ross rave about Trader Joe’s oil for its hydration and affordability. 

Amazon reviews echo this, with users praising its softness on dry, sensitive skin and its value compared to Drunk Elephant. 

Drunk Elephant’s oil has a cult following, with Sephora reviewers calling it a “holy grail” for dryness and fine lines. 

However, some, like a Skinsort.com user, argue it’s overpriced for a single-ingredient product. 

My take? Trader Joe’s matches Drunk Elephant’s performance for most users, but the luxury brand’s prestige and consistency keep it in the game.

Also Read: My Experience With Drunk Elephant Retinol 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Final Thoughts

After weeks of testing, I’m Team Trader Joe’s for its unbeatable price and near-identical performance to Drunk Elephant. 

It’s a no-fuss, effective oil that fits any budget. But if you’re all about luxury and want a premium experience, Drunk Elephant delivers. 

Whichever you choose, marula oil is a skincare superstar. Grab one and see your skin glow—you won’t regret it.