Argan oil has become increasingly popular and it’s easier than ever to add it to your health and beauty routine. It is widely available in most major grocery stores, drug stores, and online retailers.
What is argan oil?
Argan oil is derived from the kernels of the fruit of the argan tree. It is used for a variety of culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal applications and is primarily comprised of fatty acids and a variety of phenolic compounds. The majority of the fat content of argan oil comes from oleic and linoleic acid (omega-6). Argan oil is also a rich source of vitamin E, which is required for healthy skin, hair and eyes. This vitamin has powerful antioxidant properties and can be applied directly to your skin to reduce inflammation caused by injuries or infections.
How can you use argan oil?
Argan oil is usually used topically in its pure form, but it is also frequently included in cosmetic products like lotions and skin creams. You can also apply argan oil directly to damp or dry hair to improve moisture, reduce breakage, or reduce frizz. If it’s your first time using it, start with a small amount to see how your hair responds. If you have naturally oily roots, apply argan oil only to the ends of your hair to avoid greasy-looking hair.All of the antioxidants naturally found in argan oil are known for also helping soothe eczema and fade scars.
What are the benefits of argan oil?
Argan oil has a variety of benefits and for centuries, women across the Mediterranean have used it in their beauty regimen for vibrant, healthy-looking skin and hair. This powerful oil naturally helps revitalize skin, increases hair’s elasticity, and will help restore shin to dull hair—it’s also a UV-protector and free-radical neutralizer. It is easy to use all over the body, including the face and neck. Simply smooth a few drops into your skin using gentle rubbing motions, as you would any face and body lotion.
DIY argan oil face mask recipe
There are many DIY methods for creating a face mask with argan oil. One of the easiest recipes you’ll find is this one:
Take a bowl, add lemon juice (one teaspoon), avocado (2 teaspoons), honey (a teaspoon), and argan oil (a teaspoon, or, if you’re sensitive, several drops will do). Mix well, add water to get to the proper consistency for you, and voila!
You can also experiment further with yogurt, banana, oats, and other nourishing ingredients.
Leave it on for 10-15 minutes and rinse off with warm water. You’re done!
Doing this once a week can help your face look younger, smoother, and cleaner than ever before. A word of caution: don’t overdo it—15 minutes, once a week is sufficient. Essentials oils are a very potent substance, so they should be used with proper care. If you over use it, it could have a reverse effect.
Where can I buy argan oil?
Be sure to shop sustainably sourced products with fair trade practices. Keep in mind that the shelf-life for pure argan oil is around three to four months. Here are a few clean argan oil beauty products to get you started:
Maple Holistics, $9.95
Therapeutic grade pure argan oil is cold pressed and is lightweight, fast absorbing, and non-greasy to relieve dry damaged skin and strengthens hair.
Kahina Giving Beauty 100% Organic Fair Trade Argan Oil, $36
Certified organic, cold pressed and made in small batches by artisans in rural Morocco.
Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil, $49
This one-ingredient organic argan oil is a cult-fave among beauty junkies. Use it on your skin or hair.
Zweena 100% Pure Organic Argan Oil, $44
First cold-pressed, chemical-free and sourced directly from a fair-trade cooperative in Morocco.
Tata Harper Beautifying Face Oil, $78
For a lighter-weight alternative to straight argan oil, this blend of organic oils imparts skin with a healthy glow—sans grease.
Pai Echium & Argan Gentle Eye Cream, $54
This product harnesses the powers of argan oil, alongside anti-inflammatory echium, to target the delicate under-eye area.
If you’re considering the use of argan oil for a health condition, make sure to consult your physician first. Self-treating a condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. HealthComU also received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in in exchange for writing a review. Regardless, we only recommend products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
