Argan Oil Uses? Argan Oil has been used by the Berber people for centuries for cooking, cosmetic, and medicinal purposes. With a power packed nutritional profile that includes:
- high levels of omega 6 and 9 fatty acids,
- copious amounts of vitamin E,
- carotene (similar to vitamin A),
- plant phenols (vanillic acid, catechins, caffeic acid, oleuropein), squalene oil and more, …
it’s not surprising that when this oil first came to the attention of the western world, there was a rush to add it to skin and hair care products. Vitamin E is a proven and powerful antioxidant, catechins are what makes things like green tea so valuable health wise, omega 6 fatty acids are an integral part of our immune system, and omega 9 fatty acids are important for heart health. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
When applied topically, Argan Oil is proven to benefit the skin by both moisturizing and helping fight inflammation. Topically applied vitamin E is also proven to be able to boost skin cell production and improve skin and hair health. The other benefit of Argan Oil is that it can be applied as is. It doesn’t need to be added to other skin care products, although its inclusion in those significantly improves them. Pure Argan Oil can be used just as it comes, straight out of the bottle!
Here are some of the benefits of adding a bottle of this rare oil to your daily skincare routine.
For moisturizing
Argan Oil is a superb moisturizer for nighttime use and some studies have found it does have anti-aging benefits for skin. It’s absorbed rapidly by the skin and doesn’t leave an oily residue behind. Simply clean your skin as per normal, then warm a drop of Argan Oil in your palms before applying it to your face and neck. It can also be used around the eyes, doing away with the need for special eye creams. Be sure to use it sparingly though as a little goes a long way.
You can also use the oil as a whole body moisturizer. Just add a few drops to your current moisturizer, even if it’s another oil based product (coconut, olive, jojoba etc). Be sure to rub a few extra drops into problem areas like elbows and heels.
For toning
If you’re in the habit of using a toner, consider adding a few drops for a lovely healthy glow. You can also make your own toner using green tea, essential oil, and a few drops of Argan Oil. If you have problem skin like acne, consider adding a few drops of Tea Tree oil. Tea Tree oil is also high in antioxidants and has excellent antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties as well.
For exfoliating
Adding a few drops of Argan Oil to something like sugar makes an excellent homemade exfoliator. It not only removes dead skin cells for a fresher complexion but also moisturizes and helps reduce the visible appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. This exfoliator can also be used on other areas prone to dry, chapped skin like elbows, heels, feet, and even lips.
For skin disorders
Argan Oil has a 0 comedogenic rating so it doesn’t clog pores, even though it’s an oil. This means it won’t make conditions like acne worse. This study in fact found that it helps lower sebum levels so if you have oily skin that is prone to breakouts this is great news. Argan Oil has high levels of the omega 6 fatty acid linoleic acid, which helps fight inflammation and soothe skin cells. It also helps heal rashes, insect bites, and various types of skin infections and injuries. For added ‘zest’ mix it with a few drops of Tea Tree oil.
Argan Oil uses for stretch marks
One study has found that Argan Oil can be beneficial for helping improve the skin’s elasticity and for reducing stretch marks. It’s high vitamin E and carotene content is responsible for this. Both are proven to be able to help rejuvenate and improve the health of skin cells and thus the overall health and condition of your skin.
Argan Oil for lips
Rub a few drops of the oil on your lips as a moisturizing and conditioning balm. If you have minor abrasions or damage, as often happens during the dry winter months, the oil will help heal them.
Argan Oil for general skin problems
Razors can leave unsightly lumps, bumps and even razor burn. A few drops of Argan Oil rubbed into the affected areas helps soothe and heal the skin.
Argan Oil uses for hair care
The Berbers have been using Argan Oil in their hair for almost as long as they’ve been producing it! For good reason as it turns out. The oil is an excellent and non-greasy leave in conditioner that not only tames frizzy hair, and repairs split ends but also nourishes hair follicles and scalp skin. At the same time your hair will be easier to style, not to mention boasting a lovely healthy shine. Some research indicates that Argan Oil may also help with hair growth. However, if you have oily hair you may want to limit Argan Oil to simply treating the split ends.
For brittle and dry hair, or dandruff, consider treating yourself to an Argan Oil deep conditioning treatment once or twice a week. Massage a few drops of oil into your hair and scalp just before bed, cover with a shower cap and let your body warmth trapped in the cap help the oil penetrate your hair and scalp. Rinse thoroughly in the morning to remove any remaining residue.
Argan Oil uses for improved nail and cuticle health
There are several ways to apply Argan Oil to your fingernails. One method is mixing equal parts lemon juice and Argan Oil, and applying the mixture to your nails, allowing it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing. The other method is rubbing Argan Oil alone into your fingernails and cuticles, allowing to sit for a few minutes before rinsing. Either way, it helps strengthen your nails and keep your cuticles moisturized – dry cuticles are the major cause of painful hangnails and cracked sore skin around your nails.
