Deep in the sun-drenched forests of southwestern Morocco grows a tree that produces one of nature's most luxurious and multipurpose oils - argan oil. Often referred to as "liquid gold", this extraordinary oil has been prized for centuries by the Berber people for its incredible beauty and health benefits.
What is Argan Oil?
Argan oil is extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, a tree species that is endemic to Morocco. The argan tree, with its distinctive twisted trunk and small green-yellow flowers, is extremely well-adapted to survive the harsh, semi-desert conditions of the region. What makes argan oil so special is the labor-intensive, traditional production process which has remained unchanged for generations.
The argan fruits are first dried in the sun, then the hard nuts are cracked by hand with stones. The argan kernels are then removed from the hard shells and pressed to obtain the precious golden oil. This production process creates income for many Moroccan cooperatives and families, especially Berber women.
Beauty Benefits of Argan Oil
Argan oil has become increasingly popular in the Western beauty world due to its remarkable properties for hair and skin:
For Hair Care-Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, fatty acids, and antioxidants that deeply nourish and condition hair. It helps tame frizz, boosts shine, and prevents split ends and breakage.
For Skin Care- The high concentration of vitamin E makes argan oil a potent anti-aging elixir. It hydrates skin without leaving a greasy residue. Argan oil absorbs easily and can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and stretch marks.
For Nail Care- The nourishing fatty acids and vitamin E in argan oil help strengthen brittle nails and soften cuticles.
Health Benefits of Argan Oil
In addition to its cosmetic uses, argan oil has an impressive nutritional profile, boasting high levels of healthy fats, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds:
For Heart Health- Argan oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids that are proven to lower LDL "bad" cholesterol while increasing HDL "good" cholesterol.
For Anti-Inflammatory effect- The plant sterols and compounds like tocopherols give argan oil anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce symptoms of arthritis.
For Blood Sugar Regulation- Preliminary research shows argan oil may help improve glycemic control and reduce signs of type 2 diabetes.
From its Berber roots to the modern beauty and health world, argan oil has truly earned its "liquid gold" status as one of nature's most exceptional gifts. Whether using it as a haircare product, moisturizer, culinary ingredient, or supplement, you'll experience argan oil's rejuvenating and nourishing magic.
10 ways to use Argan oil
1.Hair Conditioner/Treatment: Argan oil is a fantastic hair conditioner. Work a few drops through the ends of damp hair to tame frizz, add shine, and prevent split ends.
Argan oil makes an excellent natural hair conditioner due to its nourishing and conditioning properties.
Intense Moisturization Argan oil is rich in fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acid that deeply penetrate and moisturize the hair shaft. This helps to soften dry, brittle strands and restore elasticity.
How to Use Argan Oil as a Conditioner:
- After shampooing, apply a small amount (quarter size or less for shorter hair) of argan oil to damp hair from mid-lengths to ends.
- Use your fingers to gently work the oil through your strands. Focus on the ends and any dry, damaged areas.
- Leave the argan oil in for 5-10 minutes to allow it to deeply penetrate.
- Rinse out thoroughly with cool water.
- You can also use argan oil as a leave-in treatment by applying a smaller amount to towel-dried hair before styling.
Argan oil can be used alone as a rich, intensive hair conditioner, or added to your regular conditioner for an extra dose of nourishment and frizz control. A little goes a long way with this potent "liquid gold" treatment.
2.Facial Moisturizer: Thanks to its high vitamin E and fatty acid content, argan oil absorbs readily into skin without leaving a greasy residue. Use it alone or add a few drops to your regular moisturizer.
Argan oil makes an excellent natural facial moisturizer due to its outstanding hydrating and nourishing properties. Here's how argan oil can benefit your skin when used as a facial moisturizer:
It gives to skin deep Hydration. Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acid that mimic the skin's natural oil. This allows it to absorb deeply into the skin and provide long-lasting hydration without feeling greasy.
How to Use Argan Oil as a Facial Moisturizer:
- After cleansing, apply 2-4 drops of pure argan oil to damp skin while it's still warm.
- Gently massage the oil into your face and neck using upward circular motions.
- Allow a few minutes for the oil to fully absorb before applying makeup or other products.
- For extra dry areas, you can apply a slightly heavier amount of argan oil.
You can use 100% pure argan oil alone as a facial moisturizer, or mix a few drops into your regular moisturizer or serum for added nourishment. With its lightweight feel and multitude of skincare benefits, argan oil is a luxurious yet effective way to moisturize.
3.Skin Serum: The antioxidants in argan oil make it an excellent anti-aging serum. Massage a few drops onto your face and neck before applying moisturizer.
Argan oil makes an excellent natural skin serum due to its high concentration of nutrients and antioxidants. Here's how argan oil can benefit your skin when used as a serum:
Anti-Aging Properties -Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals that cause premature aging. It can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots when used regularly.
Deep Hydration -The fatty acids in argan oil like oleic and linoleic acid deeply penetrate skin to provide intense hydration without feeling greasy or heavy. This boosts skin's elasticity and radiance.
Skin Healing -The vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory compounds in argan oil can help soothe conditions like eczema, acne, and redness while aiding skin regeneration.
UV Protection -Some studies indicate argan oil may provide a light, natural level of UV protection for the skin thanks to its ability to absorb UV rays.
How to Use Argan Oil as a Skin Serum:
- After cleansing, apply 3-5 drops of pure, cold-pressed argan oil to your face and neck while skin is still damp.
- Gently massage the oil into your skin using upward circular motions until fully absorbed.
- You can use argan oil alone as a serum or layer it under your regular moisturizer or treatment products.
- For extra hydration, mix a few drops of argan oil with your favorite serum or facial oil.
- Use argan oil serum twice daily, once in the morning and once at night, for best results.
With its rich vitamin E content and high levels of antioxidants, fatty acids, and squalene, argan oil makes a luxurious natural serum to hydrate, protect, and rejuvenate skin from the inside out.
4.Cuticle Oil: Keep nails and cuticles soft and healthy by applying a drop of argan oil to each nail and massaging it in.
Argan oil makes an excellent natural cuticle oil due to its nourishing and conditioning properties. Here are some key benefits of using argan oil for cuticle care:
Intense Hydration -Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acid that deeply penetrate and moisturize dry, cracked cuticles. This helps restore softness and flexibility.
Strengthens Nails -The antioxidants like vitamin E in argan oil help strengthen weak, brittle nails and prevent splitting and peeling.
Promotes Nail Growth -The nourishing properties of argan oil can help stimulate healthy nail growth by conditioning the nail matrix.
Prevents Hangnails -By keeping cuticles supple and moisturized, argan oil helps prevent painful hangnails from forming.
Absorbs Easily Unlike thicker oils, argan oil absorbs readily into the cuticle and nail without leaving a greasy residue behind.
How to Use Argan Oil for Cuticles:
- Take a few drops of pure, cold-pressed argan oil and gently massage it into each cuticle.
- You can also lightly brush the oil over the entire nail bed to condition nails.
- For an intensive treatment, soak nails in a warm argan oil bath for 10-15 minutes once a week.
- Reapply argan oil to cuticles nightly before bed to keep them well-moisturized.
The fatty acid and vitamin E-rich composition of argan oil makes it deeply nourishing for cuticles and nails. Using it regularly can help improve the overall condition and appearance of your manicure.
5.Shaving Oil: Argan oil's silky texture makes it ideal as a shaving oil to prevent nicks, razor burn, and ingrown hairs.
Here's how to use argan oil as a natural, nourishing shaving gel:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 tablespoons argan oil
- 1 tablespoon shea butter or coconut oil (optional for extra moisturizing)
- Essential oils like lavender or sandalwood (optional for scent)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the argan oil with the shea butter or coconut oil if using. You want just enough thickness to create a gel-like consistency.
- If desired, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a light, natural scent.
- Using your fingers or a shaving brush, massage the argan oil blend onto your skin in the area you want to shave. The oil will help soften and lubricate the hair.
- Allow the oil to sit for 1-2 minutes so it can further condition the hair before shaving.
- Using a sharp, quality razor, shave in the direction of the hair growth. The argan oil will allow the razor to glide smoothly over skin.
- Rinse the razor frequently while shaving to prevent buildup.
- After shaving, rinse any remaining oil off with cool water and pat dry.
The vitamin E and fatty acids in argan oil provide excellent glide for a close, comfortable shave. The oil also moisturizes skin to prevent irritation, razor burn, and ingrown hairs.
You can use this natural argan oil shaving gel on your face, legs, underarms or anywhere you need to remove hair. It's a chemical-free, ultra-nourishing alternative to standard shaving gels and creams.
6.Bath Oil: Add a cap full of argan oil to warm bath water for ultra-hydrating and relaxing soaks.
Argan oil makes an excellent natural bath oil due to its rich moisturizing and nourishing properties. Here's how you can use argan oil for luxurious, skin-pampering baths:
Benefits of Using Argan Oil as a Bath Oil:
Deep Hydration- Argan oil is packed with vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants that penetrate the skin to deliver intense, long-lasting hydration.
Softens Skin-The emollient properties of argan oil help soften rough, dry patches and restore skin's natural suppleness.
Anti-Aging-The vitamin E in argan oil protects against free radical damage that contributes to premature aging of the skin.
Soothes Irritation-Argan oil has anti-inflammatory benefits that can help calm skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and general redness/irritation.
Light, Non-Greasy Feel-Unlike heavier oils, argan oil absorbs easily without leaving a greasy residue on the skin.
How to Use Argan Oil as a Bath Oil:
- Fill your bathtub with warm water as you typically would.
- Pour 2-4 tablespoons of pure, cold-pressed argan oil under the running water. This will disperse the oil throughout the bathwater.
- For extra benefits, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil like lavender, rose, or chamomile.
- Swirl the water with your hand to fully incorporate the oils.
- Soak in the tub for 20-30 minutes, allowing your skin to fully absorb and benefit from the oils.
- Gently pat your skin dry after the bath, leaving some of the oils behind on your skin.
- Follow up with a body lotion or moisturizer if desired.
Adding argan oil to your bath transforms it into an ultra-pampering spa treatment that deeply hydrates, nourishes, and rejuvenates skin from head to toe. Enjoy its luxurious benefits!
7.Lip Balm: Dab a tiny amount of argan oil onto lips to soothe dryness and create a soft, glossy look.
Argan oil makes an excellent natural lip balm due to its moisturizing and nourishing properties. Here's how you can use argan oil as a hydrating lip treatment:
Benefits of Using Argan Oil as a Lip Balm:
Intense Hydration-Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants that penetrate and condition dry, chapped lips.
Soothes Irritation-The anti-inflammatory properties of argan oil can help soothe sore, cracked, or irritated lips.
Anti-Aging-The vitamin E in argan oil provides antioxidant protection against free radicals that contribute to premature aging of the delicate lip area.
Non-Greasy Texture-Unlike thicker lip balms, argan oil has a lightweight, non-greasy feel that won't make lips feel sticky or heavy.
How to Use Argan Oil as a Lip Balm:
- Take a few drops of pure, cold-pressed argan oil and gently massage it into your lips using your fingertip.
- Reapply the argan oil as needed throughout the day to keep lips hydrated and nourished.
- For an overnight treatment, apply a thicker layer of argan oil to lips before bedtime.
- You can also combine argan oil with other nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or beeswax to create a customized lip balm.
Argan oil makes an excellent natural alternative to conventional lip balms. Its vitamin-rich composition penetrates lips to replenish moisture while protecting against environmental irritants. Wake up to softer, smoother, more youthful-looking lips with argan oil.
8.Body Oil: Smooth argan oil over skin after showering for deep, long-lasting hydration.
Argan oil makes an excellent natural body oil due to its outstanding moisturizing and nourishing properties.
Benefits of Using Argan Oil as a Body Oil:
Deep Hydration-Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants that penetrate deeply to moisturize even the driest skin.
Improves Skin Elasticity-The high linoleic acid content in argan oil helps improve skin's elasticity, reducing the appearance of stretch marks and fine lines.
Soothes Irritation-The anti-inflammatory compounds in argan oil can help calm redness, itching, and irritation caused by dryness or conditions like eczema.
Non-Greasy Absorption-Despite its oil-rich composition, argan oil absorbs readily into skin without leaving a greasy residue behind.
How to Use Argan Oil as a Body Oil:
1. After showering or bathing, pat skin partially dry, leaving it slightly damp.
2. Pour a quarter-sized amount of pure argan oil into your palms and rub hands together to warm the oil.
3. Massage the argan oil all over your body using long, circular strokes. Focus on drier areas like elbows, knees, and feet.
4. For severely dry patches, you can apply a thicker layer of argan oil and allow it to fully absorb.
5. For best results, use the argan body oil daily after showering or as an intensive overnight treatment.
You can use 100% pure argan oil alone, or blend it with other nourishing oils like coconut or jojoba. The nutty aroma of argan oil provides a subtle, luxurious scent.
With regular use, argan oil will leave your skin soft, supple, and radiantly glowing from head to toe.
9.Cooking Oil: Due to its high smoke point and nutty flavor, argan oil is wonderful for sautéing, drizzling over dishes, or using in marinades.
10.Hair Serum: Just a few drops of argan oil can tame frizz, boost shine, and protect hair from heat styling and environmental damage.
Argan oil makes an excellent natural hair serum due to its nourishing and conditioning properties.
Benefits of Using Argan Oil as a Hair Serum:
Intense Hydration-Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acid that deeply penetrate and moisturize dry, brittle hair strands.
Frizz Control-The nourishing effects of argan oil help to smooth down the hair cuticle and tame frizzy flyaways, leaving hair sleek and manageable.
Split End Prevention-The antioxidants and fatty acids in argan oil strengthen hair from the inside out, preventing splitting and breakage.
Heat Protection-Argan oil has a high heat resistance, creating a protective barrier when using hot styling tools like blow dryers, flat irons, etc.
Adds Shine-The lightweight formula of argan oil adds radiant shine and lustre to dull, lifeless hair without weighing it down.
How to Use Argan Oil as a Hair Serum:
1. Start with clean, damp or dry hair. If using on damp hair, gently towel blot first to remove excess moisture.
2. Take a quarter-sized amount of pure argan oil and rub it between your palms to warm and activate the oil.
3. Focus first on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, using a smoothing motion to evenly distribute the oil.
4. For extra frizz control or added shine at the roots, lightly work any remaining oil from your hands into the top layers.
5. Style as usual, using argan oil as a heat protectant if desired before blow drying or using hot tools.
6. For an intensive hair treatment, apply argan oil liberally from roots to ends, cover with a shower cap, and leave on overnight before shampooing out.
With its vitamin-rich formula, argan oil makes a versatile hair serum that hydrates, smooths, defrizzes and adds brilliant shine to any hair type. Use it daily for truly stunning, glossy locks.
Argan oil for your skin
Argan oil provides numerous benefits for the skin due to its unique composition of nutrients and compounds. Here's what argan oil can do for your skin:
Hydrates deeply
Argan oil is rich in fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acids that help restore the skin's moisture barrier and prevent water loss. This makes it an excellent natural moisturizer for dry, flaky skin.
Can have Anti-Aging properties
The high vitamin E content in argan oil provides powerful antioxidant protection against free radicals that contribute to premature aging. It can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
Can heal the skin
The vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory properties of argan oil can aid in healing skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. It soothes irritation and supports skin regeneration.
Can protect against UV rays
Studies suggest that argan oil may provide some natural protection against UV damage due to its antioxidant activity and ability to absorb UV rays.
Can be used as scar and Stretch Mark Treatment
The vitamin E and essential fatty acids in argan oil can help improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks by promoting skin elasticity and regeneration.
Have non-Greasy Absorption
Despite being rich in oils, argan oil absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a heavy, greasy residue behind, making it ideal for all skin types.
Can balance sebum production
Argan oil can help regulate sebum production, making it beneficial for both dry and oily skin types.
When used topically, argan oil deeply nourishes, protects, and revitalizes the skin with its unique blend of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, promoting a healthy, youthful complexion.
Here are some of the best skincare products that contain beneficial argan oil:
Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil
This pure, organic argan oil from Josie Maran is a cult favorite. It can be used as a facial oil, hair treatment, or body moisturizer.
Originally formulated for hair, this iconic product from Moroccan Oil also works wonders on skin. It hydrates and softens with argan oil and other nourishing ingredients.
Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil
This facial oil combines argan oil with marula oil to deeply nourish and replenish dry, dehydrated skin.
Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate
An overnight facial oil that uses argan oil along with evening primrose oil to restore radiance and smooth fine lines.
The Body Shop Drops of Youth Youth Bouncy Sleeping Mask
This overnight mask contains argan oil to hydrate and plump skin while you sleep for a youthful glow.
Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter
A decadently whipped body butter that utilizes 100% pure argan oil for deep long-lasting moisture.
From face oils to hair treatments and body butters, argan oil's hydrating and rejuvenating properties make it a prized ingredient in luxurious skincare products.
Argan oil in hair care
Argan oil is a popular ingredient in haircare products due to its numerous benefits for hair health. Here are the key benefits of using argan oil for hair, along with how to use it effectively.
Intense Hydration
Argan oil is rich in fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acid, which help to deeply moisturize and condition dry, brittle hair.
Frizz Control
The nourishing properties of argan oil help to tame frizz and flyaways, leaving hair smooth and manageable.
Prevent split ends
The vitamin E and antioxidants in argan oil help to strengthen hair strands, preventing split ends and breakage.
Shine Enhancer
Argan oil adds a natural, healthy-looking shine to dull, lifeless hair without leaving a greasy residue.
Protects from heat
The high heat resistance of argan oil makes it an excellent heat protectant for styling with blow dryers, flat irons, and curling wands.
Nourish the scalp
Massaging argan oil into the scalp can help to nourish the hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth.
How to Use Argan Oil for Hair:
As a Leave-In Conditioner: After shampooing, apply a small amount of argan oil (start with a dime-sized amount) to damp hair, focusing on the ends. Style as usual.
As a Hair Mask: Mix argan oil with other nourishing ingredients like honey, avocado, or coconut oil for an intensive hair mask treatment. Apply to clean, damp hair, cover with a shower cap, and leave on for 30 minutes before rinsing.
As a Styling Product: Use a few drops of argan oil to smooth flyaways, tame frizz, and add shine to your hairstyle.
As a Heat Protectant: Apply a small amount of argan oil to damp or dry hair before using hot styling tools like blow dryers, flat irons, or curling wands.
As a Scalp Treatment: Gently massage a few drops of argan oil into your scalp, focusing on dry or flaky areas. Leave on overnight and shampoo as usual in the morning.
With its nourishing properties and versatile uses, argan oil is an excellent addition to any haircare routine, helping to promote strong, shiny, and healthy hair.
Hair care products with argan oil
Here are some of the best haircare products that contain nourishing argan oil:
1. Moroccan Oil Treatment Original
This cult-favorite hair treatment combines argan oil with linseed extract to smooth frizz, add shine, and condition hair.
2. OGX Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner
An affordable drugstore option, this sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner system is infused with argan oil to hydrate and repair damaged hair.
3. Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil
This versatile pure argan oil can be used as a hair serum, treatment, or styling product to tame frizz and add shine.
4. Agadir Argan Oil Hair Treatment
This intensive argan oil hair mask deeply conditions and repairs dry, brittle hair.
5. John Masters Organics Argan Oil & Pomegranate Hair Serum
A lightweight hair serum that combines argan and pomegranate oils to smooth frizz and protect hair from heat damage.
6. Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask
This ultra-nourishing hair mask uses argan oil along with other oils and butters to repair severely damaged hair.
7. Hask Argan Oil Repairing Shine Hair Treatment
An affordable hair treatment that replenishes moisture and boosts shine with argan oil.
8. Living Proof Restore Repair Oil
This silicone-free hair oil blends argan oil with coconut and jojoba oils to smooth and strengthen hair.
9. Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Seal
Designed for curly hair, this serum utilizes argan oil to define and hydrate curls without weighing them down.
10. R+Co Gem Liter Sparkling Gloss
This lightweight glossing mist detangles, adds shine, and protects with argan oil and gemstone extract.
From shampoos and conditioners to hair masks and serums, argan oil's hydrating and repairing abilities make it a popular ingredient in high-end and drugstore haircare products alike.
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