What is argan oil?
Argan oil is extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, which is native to Morocco. Moroccans traditionally use argan oil for the external treatment of eczema and psoriasis to wrinkles and hair loss. Due to its high content of antioxidants, fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil is an excellent way to moisturize and protect the skin from the sun.
Traditional production of argan oil
The production of argan oil is an artisanal process usually reserved for Berber women (in cooperatives). The almonds contained in the kernels of the tree fruit are carefully extracted using ancient techniques. Then these “almonds” are ground into a paste. This mixture is then mixed with lukewarm water and kneaded to produce argan oil.
If the almonds are roasted beforehand, the argan oil is intended for use as food. It is dark in color and nutty in flavor and very nutritious. If the almonds are not roasted, the argan oil is used for cosmetic or medicinal purposes. It can then be applied to the skin, hair and nails.
The advantages of argan oil
1. argan oil moisturizes the skin and increases its elasticity.
Basically, any skin type can benefit from using a moisturizer with argan oil. Since it contains no potentially irritating ingredients, it is particularly suitable for sensitive skin. It also works wonders for dry skin, revitalizing and protecting it from further drying. Thanks to its firming and anti-aging properties, this product is ideal for aged skin that has lost its elasticity and tone. Last but not least, it is effective in treating acne and preventing acne scars in oily and dry skin.
2. prevention and treatment of stretch marks
Berber women have been using argan oil for centuries during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, massage the oil into your skin several times a day. Pure organic argan oil (non-toxic vegetable oil) does not harm the health of the baby. As pure and natural argan oil is rich in vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids, it moisturizes and softens the epidermis, which plays a crucial role in elasticity. The epidermis is better equipped to handle the stretching that comes with growth, pregnancy or weight change.
3. argan oil prolongs and intensifies summer tan
Before and during sunbathing, it is important to protect the skin from drying out so as not to accelerate skin aging. It is recommended to apply a thin layer of argan oil to the skin before sunbathing; however, it should be remembered that argan oil does not contain a UV filter and does not protect the skin from sun damage. Therefore, it is essential to use a proven effective sunscreen after the argan oil. After sunbathing, a full body scrub should be performed once a week to remove dead skin cells, and most importantly, moisturize the skin daily with pure argan oil. Then you will appreciate the nourishing (supple skin) and soothing (anti-inflammatory) component that stimulates the regeneration of the epidermis while enhancing your tan.
4. protects the hair from damage
Besides its moisturizing and nourishing properties, argan oil is also known for its rejuvenating effect on the hair bulb. It strengthens the hair fiber and restores volume and elasticity to lifeless, weakened hair. A light massage on the scalp (with circular movements) promotes blood circulation, cell regeneration and keratin synthesis. This fiber protein is the main component of the hair structure and gives its strength, elasticity and smoothness. With the help of this therapy, hair growth is stimulated and hair loss is slowed down.
5. argan oil strengthens nails and protects the nail bed.
The healing properties of argan oil go beyond the nails themselves, helping to heal cracked cuticles and other wounds around the nail bed. It thoroughly moisturizes and nourishes the nails so that they do not dry out and become unsightly.
Argan oil is versatile and can be used with other oils for numerous applications (castor oil, almond oil, olive oil, rosemary oil, etc.). It is best to apply the argan oil directly to the nails every evening before going to bed. An accompanying massage promotes the absorption of nutrients. If you want to rinse the nails with clear water, wait about 10 minutes beforehand.
6. argan oil strengthens the whiskers
Due to its anti-inflammatory and restorative effect, argan oil can be used after shaving. At the same time, it reduces irritation and inflammation of the beard and improves the appearance of the skin. It also promotes hair development and makes hair fuller and denser.
The 10 most popular argan oils according to customer reviews
How to use argan oil for the face?
For dry skin, it is best to apply the moisturizer to a clean, dry face in the morning so that it can work its moisturizing magic throughout the day. The composition of the cream regulates sebum production and prevents the skin from looking greasy during the day.
For older and wrinkled skin, it is recommended to use the product before bedtime. It can easily be used throughout the day, but when applied at night, the skin can absorb vitamins and trace elements without being exposed to external stimuli (wind, dust, rain, sun, pollution, etc.).
For sensitive or acne-prone skin, it is recommended to apply argan oil to freshly washed, dry skin in the evening. Sleep is important during the period of cell regeneration, so this is the ideal time to apply argan oil to the skin.
With a dull and lifeless skin appearance, it is important to use the sublimating properties of this oil. The optimal time for application is the morning.
Application on hands and feet
Especially in winter, when hands tend to dryness, argan oil is often used for hand care. Apply a small amount of the oil to your palms and then massage it into the skin in circular motions.
Before going to bed, you can apply argan oil to your nails to improve their appearance and strength. In summer, you can rub your feet and nails with argan oil at any time of the day, but preferably in the evening.
Argan oil for hair
Using argan oil as a hair mask on freshly washed and dried hair can help restore elasticity and strength to dry, brittle and fragile hair. If you wrap your hair in a towel after applying the oil, the oil can be absorbed more quickly.
You can rinse your hair with water if you like, but it is not mandatory. Note that your hair may feel a little greasy during this treatment. Use argan oil to soak split ends for 10 minutes.
Argan oil for the body
It is known that the application of argan oil on the body can prevent stretch marks. The best method is to massage the oil into the skin in the areas where stretch marks may form. This includes the chest, back, shoulders and buttocks.
Use this oil on sun-exposed areas to enhance and maintain a tan. Use it as an after-sun treatment after sunbathing. In case of excessive sun exposure, a regenerating sun milk should be used to soothe the skin (e.g. in case of burns).
