Argan oil has shown up in a variety of cosmetics for both hair and skin. But why has this oil become so popular? Well, Argan Oil contains numerous properties that make it a great moisturizer. Plus it helps to reduce many types of blemishes. This oil can even reduce pain and swelling in skin and joint conditions. If you are wondering about all the benefits of argan oil and why you should add it to your routine, keep reading!

What is Argan Oil

Argan oil comes from the fruit of the Argan tree. This fruit contains a hard nut, which in turn holds kernels. These kernels are the source of the argan oil we use today in a variety of cosmetic and health products.

The History of Argan Oil

Many believe that the first Argan tree originated in the small village of Argana. This village was located north-east of Agadir, a large city in Morocco. The argan tree then spread throughout the south-western areas of the country. Goats loved the fruit of this tree so much that they would climb the branches to get to it. Then, they would leave behind the hard nut inside, which was collected by the women of the area. They extracted the oil from the kernels for hair conditioners and skin moisturizers.

In 1550 B.C, the Phoenicians began to record their argan oil uses. These uses included healing and beautification of their bodies. In 1510 B.C., an African explorer named Leo Africanus traveled across Morocco. He saw the people using argan oil and learned about the many health benefits it had. When he left for Europe, he took some of it with him. Unfortunately, only the wealthiest of people could afford this rare and expensive oil.

Even now, the Berber women who live in Southern Morocco are known for their beauty. Though no longer a secret, they attribute it to argan oil. These women apply it regularly to their faces, bodies, hair, and nails. And women all over the world are now doing the same. But these days, the Argan tree has to be protected to ensure its survival. The trees have diminished in numbers. There are also some ecological problems that threaten its survival. This tree is now under the protection of UNESCO, under its Man and Biosphere Program. This ensures the ecosystem the tree lives in is protected and preserved. The Argan tree is also protected against human exploitation.

The Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve ensures a sustainable amount of Argan trees. This area covers 2,560,000 hectares of land. This stretches from the Atlas Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean. The 2 million people who live in this area rely on the Argan tree and its oil. It gives them food, shelter, medicine, and ecological benefits they need to survive.

The Health Benefits of Argan Oil

Argan oil has a variety of benefits that make this “liquid gold” such a boon to the beauty and health industries. One of the top reasons it is such a healthy oil is because of the vitamins it contains. Vitamin A is an antioxidant. It helps your skin and mucous membranes fight off bacteria and viruses. Vitamin E contains Tocopherol, which helps boost your cell production. This vitamin is also an antioxidant and keeps your skin and hair healthy. Argan oil contains oleic acid, which is a monounsaturated fatty acid. This has many therapeutic effects. Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid in the Omega-6 family. It is an anti-inflammatory and aids in wound healing.

The Uses of Argan Oil

#1 – Oily Skin:

Oily skin has a variety of causes. For some, it is genetic, getting it because their parents have it. For others, it happens during big hormonal changes, like puberty or pregnancy. Some medical issues can cause oily skin. The heat of the summer can also cause your skin to feel greasier than usual. Argan oil can help to control this issue. Topical varieties of argan oil contain anti-sebum activity. This means it will actually reduce the amount of oil your skin will produce. Argan oil is used in many moisturizers for this very reason. It hydrates your skin, so the sebaceous glands don’t need to keep creating sebum to do so. This works well for those of all ages as well, so anyone with oily skin can use this product with great results.

You can use a cream that contains argan oil twice each day, morning and night. You can also use a drop of pure argan oil instead, but this should only be done at night. Be sure to apply it after you cleanse your skin. This will ensure the oil will be absorbed properly. Warm the drop in your hands, then apply it to your face using a circular motion.

#2 – Acne:

Oily skin also seems to have an abundance of acne, which can make their skin issues even worse to deal with. But other skin types have to deal with these blemishes as well. Hormonal changes, diet, and medications can all cause acne. The frequency and severity can also be altered during these body changes. Because argan oil reduces the sebum levels, there is less oil on your face. This traps fewer bacteria and dirt which could cause acne. The high linoleic acid content reduces the inflammation that comes with the blemishes. It also helps to soothe the damaged skin cells in these areas.

You can use argan oil on its own in a similar way you would with oily skin. First, use a gentle cleanser and toner. Then place a drop of argan oil in your hand to warm it up. Lightly dab it over the affected areas first, then gently rub it over the rest of your face. You can also combine the argan oil with tea tree oil. This addition is also high in antioxidants. Tea tree oil also has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Together, these oils can help get rid of stubborn acne and reduce scarring.

#3 – Anti-aging:

There is a reason the women of Morocco have such healthy, young-looking skin. Argan oil is high in essential fatty acids and antioxidants. This makes it a good choice for those who want to prevent premature aging. As well as preventing the lines and wrinkles, this oil can help with those that have already appeared. With regular use, the depth and severity of the wrinkles can both be reduced. This is because argan oil can help restore your skin’s elasticity. It also increases the regeneration rate of skin cells for a healthy turnover. Along with crow’s feet and other lines, age spots on your face can also be eliminated.

Since moisture loss is one of the reasons aging occurs, argan oil also helps in this area. It hydrates your skin, causing less collagen reduction. Argan oil also protects your skin from the elements that can contribute to aging skin. Harmful UV rays are the biggest culprit, but wind, cold, and heat are also big factors. To keep your skin looking youthful, just use a drop or two of it. Massage the oil into your face and neck every night before bed and let it work its magic while you sleep.

#4 – Stretch Marks:

Stretch marks are normally associated with pregnancy, as any woman who’s had a baby knows. But stretch marks can occur at other times as well. Children or teenagers who grow too quickly can get them. Those who gain a lot of weight and then lose it again also have stretch marks. These marks are unsightly and embarrassing for anyone who has them.

Argan oil can help with stretch marks in a few ways. First of all, the Vitamins A and E in this oil can keep the skin soft and hydrated. Argan oil also improves elasticity, so stretch marks are less likely to appear. To prevent stretch marks from occurring, place 2 or 3 drops in your hand. Warm them up and then gently rub the oil into any problem areas. These could include your stomach, thighs, hips, or anywhere else you think may need it.

For those who already have a few of these marks on their body, argan oil can also help reduce their appearance. First, mix the oil with brown sugar. Massage it into the affected areas during a bath. Rinse it well, dry off, and then apply the oil to these areas again before you dress.

#5 – Body Moisturizer:

Argan oil isn’t just for moisturizing your face. It can be used to keep your whole body soft and supple. Argan oil contains saponins, which help improve your cell’s ability to regenerate. This increases turnover, allowing your skin to shed the old dead cells and create new ones. Your skin is your body’s biggest and most important organ. Argan oil can help it stay healthy and strong, protecting you from the outside.

Another benefit of using argan oil as a body moisturizer is that it is completely natural. Lotions and creams you buy in the store contain many unpronounceable ingredients. Many of these are chemicals which are harsh on your skin. This makes these products less effective and sometimes harmful. Argan oil is pure and safe, with no side effects. It is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids to keep your skin healthy. It also absorbs easily with no greasy residue. You can use a few drops on their own, massaging them into your skin. Focus on the drier areas first, like elbows and knees, then move on the other areas. You can also add it to a carrier oil, like coconut, olive or jojoba oil, for additional benefits.

#6 – Skin Conditions:

Skin conditions can be irritating and painful, not to mention unsightly. Atopic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis may benefit from the use of argan oil. There are many ways in which this oil can help, all thanks to the beneficial properties this oil contains. It is hydrating, which helps reduce the flare-ups of these conditions. This helps the skin perform its barrier function properly. Argan oil contains oleic acid, linoleic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids. These help lock in the skin’s moisture which helps protect the integrity of the skin. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, so it can fight off the damage caused by free radicals. Because it is an anti-inflammatory, argan oil reduces the swelling and pain.

To use argan oil on all of these skin conditions, you only need a small amount. It should be pure argan oil as well, to make sure there are no irritants in it that could make the condition worse. Apply a couple drops of argan oil to the affected areas. Massage it in gently, allowing the skin to absorb the oil. This will provide you with the relief you need, reduce the symptoms, and encourage healing.

#7 – Leave In Conditioner:

Your hair suffers a lot of damage every day. Hair products and heat styling can dry out the strands and cause split ends. UV rays, pollution, and other environmental factors also hurt your delicate strands. To combat all of these issues, you need to protect your hair at all times. One of the best ways to do this is by using a leave-in conditioner. Unfortunately, store-bought products can contain many harsh chemicals. Though they are meant to help your hair, they may end up increasing the damage.

Argan oil is a safe and natural alternative. The high vitamin E content rejuvenates your hair, protecting the follicle beds. It also helps increase the shine and improve your hair’s overall appearance. Argan oil can also seal in your hair’s moisture, preventing dryness. Fly-aways and frizzy hair will be toned down, making it more manageable. To use argan oil as a leave-in conditioner, start with 1 drop of oil. Rub it between your palms and then run your hands through your hair. Focus on your ends first since these will be the most damaged areas. If you feel you need more, add another drop to your hands and repeat the process.

#8 – Deep Conditioning Treatment:

Dry, brittle hair needs some extra special care. This damage comes from repeated coloring, heat styling, and environmental factors. If the damage isn’t treated right away, it can leave your hair looking and feeling like straw. This type of hair is impossible to style as well, which makes matters even worse. In order to give your hair back its shine and vitality, you need to use a deep conditioning treatment. This will help moisturize and strengthen your hair so you won’t have to chop it off and start fresh.

To use argan oil as a deep conditioner, place 5 to 10 drops of oil into your hand. Rub your hands together to warm the oil, then apply it to your scalp. Then apply the oil to the ends, working your way up the hair shaft. When the hair is completely coated, twist it up and cover it with a shower cap. This will help retain your natural body heat, which will make it easier for the oil to penetrate your hair. Leave it on overnight. Then wash your hair, as usual, the next morning, making sure you rinse the oil away completely. Do this once a week for healthier hair.

#9 – Nails:

If your nails are brittle and prone to breaking, you can use argan oil to help make them stronger and healthier. This oil has high levels of vitamin E, which promotes cell production. Argan oil also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These can help fight off any infections on your fingernails and toenails. It can moisturize your nails and cuticles, which reduces the cracks and dryness. This can also decrease the number of hangnails that occur.

To use argan oil on all twenty of your nails, first, make sure they are clean. You will need to remove any nail polish to ensure there is no barrier between the nail and the oil. This will help it absorb better. Apply a fraction of a drop onto each one of your nails. Then rub the oil into the cuticle and the nail bed, making sure the whole nail is covered. Give it a few minutes to soak in and then wash your hands and feet thoroughly. The oil will condition your nails, increasing their shine as well as their strength. The added moisture will also help reduce flaking and chipping. You can do this nightly before bed for the best results.

#10 – Foot Treatment:

Dry, cracked feet and heels happen for a variety of reasons. Standing for too long or wearing shoes that don’t fit are common causes. Long, hot showers and harsh soaps can also contribute. Going barefoot or in open-backed sandals and even the climate can lead to these issues. As well as being uncomfortable, these dry areas on your feet can be ugly to look at. You’ll want to hide your feet away, even in the months that warrant displaying them. Argan oil can help treat the cracking and reduce the dryness that causes it.

You only need to use a few drops of oil on each foot. Apply it to the worst areas first, making sure these places are thoroughly covered. Then spread the oil onto the rest of the foot to hydrate and moisturize it. Do not rinse the oil off. Instead, cover your feet in a pair of soft, cozy socks and let the oil soak into your feet. You can remove the socks after 20 minutes, but it is preferable to leave them this way overnight. Then wipe your feet with a warm washcloth to get rid of any residual oil that may be on your soles.

#11 – Razor Bumps and Burn:

Anyone who has ever used a razor has experienced the pain and discomfort of razor burn and razor bumps. These can happen when you don’t use enough lubrication if the form of shaving cream or soap. Having a dull blade can also cause these issues, as can rushing through the shaving process. Whether it occurs on your face, legs, underarms, or bikini area, it can be uncomfortable. This discomfort can be even worse if you have to add sunscreen or some other product to these areas.

Applying argan oil to the razor burn and bumps can help soothe the pain and heal your skin. You can use it anywhere on your body to treat these issues with no irritation. Using argan oil can reduce the number of ingrown hairs that occur as well. To use argan oil as a razor burn treatment, place a drop or two in your hands. How much to use depends on the size of the area you need to cover. Warm the oil, then apply it to the areas suffering from razor burn. Massage it in thoroughly. Then get dressed and continue on with your day in a less painful manner.

#12 – Arthritic and Rheumatic Conditions: 

Argan oil has amazing anti-inflammatory properties. The first is the flavonoids, which can treat both internal and external inflammation. Argan oil also contains high levels of triterpenoids. These are important for such illnesses, particularly the butyrospermol. These biologically active compounds have anti-inflammatory properties.

The linoleic acid in the argan oil increases prostaglandins 1 production. This is known to help treat the symptoms of rheumatic conditions. They do this by mediating the inflammatory response in all areas of the body. This makes it an effective treatment for swelling in your joints and muscles. This can be a blessing for those suffering all types of rheumatic conditions. Reducing the swelling can also decrease the pain these people are dealing with on a daily basis. You can use argan oil to help relieve the sore muscles and joints from these issues and many others. Take a couple drops of pure argan oil and massage it into the affected area. You can also use culinary grade argan oil in your food preparations. This will allow you to treat these issues from the inside.

Benefits of Argan Oil Final Thoughts

Using argan oil on your skin, hair, and nails can make you look younger and healthier. But it can also make you feel better, reducing pain and treating problems you may be dealing with. The fact that it costs a bit more than other oils may deter some, but the benefits make it well worth the higher cost. If you are looking for more hair care articles check out our hair care buyer’s guides.

Footnotes:

• Dr. Axe: Top 12 Argan Oil Benefits for Skin & Hair
• Natural Living Ideas: Argan Oil: 17 Reasons Everyone Needs A Bottle Of This “Miracle” Oil
• Argan Oil World: 10 Argan Oil Benefits for Hair and Skin
• NCBI: Activation of MITF by Argan Oil Leads to the Inhibition of the Tyrosinase and Dopachrome Tautomerase Expressions in B16 Murine Melanoma Cells
• UHR: Benefits of Argan Oil – Healing Liquid Gold From Morocco

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