Unlike many of the lesser-known ingredients that we often cover, argan oil is one that you’re probably familiar with. It’s a go-to in haircare products – your shampoo and conditioner probably contain it. While this may be the case, argan oil is also extremely beneficial for the skin. Let’s take a look at exactly how this ingredient could boost your complexion…
Contents
What is Argan Oil?
Argan oil is a plant oil that comes from the Argan tree, which is native to Morocco. The tree produces fruits with a fleshy pulp. This is removed to reveal a nut, which is then cracked by hand so that the argan kernels within can be extracted. Those kernels are then pressed to produce an unfiltered pure oil. The filtering process follows, resulting in the beautifully clean and clear Moroccan argan oil that we all know and love.
Argan Oil Benefits for Skin
Suitable for all skin types, argan oil could bring a number of benefits to your beauty routine:
Packed with Antioxidants
Argan oil has powerful antioxidant properties. It contains vitamin E, ferulic acid, polyphenols, and so much more. These neutralize the free radicals in your skin, which are caused by environmental damage. As a result, this has an anti-aging effect, as it helps to preserve the proteins in your skin that are responsible for firmness and smoothness.
Moisturizing Benefits
Around 95% of argan oil consists of fatty acids [1]. Oleic acid and linoleic acid are the two that are found in the highest concentrations, and both of these help to nourish and moisturize the skin.
Just a few drops of argan oil will seal any gaps in your skin barrier. This prevents the water in your skin from evaporating away, which will boost moisture levels. It’s especially beneficial for dry skin, but every skin type would appreciate some extra hydration.
Improves Skin Elasticity
Research shows that both topical application and oral consumption of argan oil can improve skin elasticity [2], something that many struggle with as they age. These effects are magnified even further when it is combined with other natural oils and extracts that are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, such as shea butter, olive oil, watermelon seed oil, and cucumber extract.
Fades Dark Spots
If you’ve been trying to lighten hyperpigmentation in your skin, or simply brighten up a dull skin tone, you need to use argan oil. Why? Because the oil’s vitamin E content helps to prevent the skin from producing excess melanin, which is what leads to those darker patches.
Research also suggests that argan oil could be beneficial when it comes to healing and fading dark burn scars [3].
Soothes Acne-Prone Skin
Argan oil has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The way in which it’s able to so effectively reduce inflammation makes it a game-changer for those trying to treat acne.
Even better, argan oil also helps to rebalance the rate at which your skin produces sebum. In the long-term, this will help to cut back on how oily your skin is.
And don’t worry, argan oil is non-comedogenic. This means that it won’t clog pores or contribute to more breakouts.
Helps to Treat Other Inflammatory Skin Conditions
In addition to acne, argan oil’s anti-inflammatory effects can help to treat other skin conditions too. Those suffering from eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea have found argan oil to be useful at reducing flare-ups.
The pure oil needs to be applied directly to affected areas of skin for it to make a difference, although combining topical use with oral supplements can maximize the ingredient’s effects.
Protects and Minimizes Stretch Marks
Research shows that the way in which argan oil can boost elasticity also makes it useful when treating stretch marks [4]. However, in order for argan oil to have a noticeable effect, it needs to be used early on and should be applied at least twice a day.
How to Use Argan Oil on Your Skin
It’s easy to add argan oil to your skincare routine. Either purchase products that have already been formulated with argan oil, or buy the oil in its pure form. If you do the latter, apply a few drops of the oil directly to your skin after applying your face cream.
Don’t forget that you can also use argan oil on your hair. Those fatty acids that moisturize your skin will work wonders for your locks too. All you need to do is massage a small amount of argan oil onto clean, wet hair and top this with a shower cap. Wait for 20 minutes before rinsing out. In addition to providing your scalp with important nutrients and anti-inflammatory compounds, this mini massage will also help to boost blood flow, giving you healthier hair overall.
Does Argan Oil Have Any Side Effects?
When you apply argan oil topically, it very rarely causes side effects, even on sensitive skin. The exception would be for those who are allergic to tree nuts. Even though argan oil technically comes from a stone fruit, it may still trigger an allergic reaction. If you’re prone to allergies, perform a patch test before using argan oil on your skin and hair.
Oral argan oil supplements come with more side effects. The most common is digestive upset, but you may also notice rashes or breakouts on your skin. If this happens, stop taking your supplements immediately and speak to your doctor for further advice.
FAQs
Can you use pure argan oil on your face?
Yes, it’s safe to use pure argan oil on your face. In fact, this is one of the best ways to benefit from the oil’s linoleic acids and vitamin E content.
What skin type is argan oil good for?
Argan oil is good for all skin types!
Can argan oil be used on oily skin?
Yes, argan oil is a great ingredient for oily skin. It can actually help to rebalance excess oil production, reducing oiliness in the long run. It doesn’t leave a greasy residue behind either.
Summary
Argan oil isn’t a new ingredient. It has been used for both the skin and hair since ancient times, and is just as popular today. If none of the skincare products that you’re using already contain argan oil, it would be well worth purchasing the oil in its pure form. Add this into your routine a couple of times a day and it won’t be long before you start to notice improvements in your skin.
References
[1] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ejlt.200700220#
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4321565/
[3] https://www.o-wm.com/article/effects-argan-oil-second-degree-burn-wound-healing-rats
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5019162/
