Argan oil, made from the kernels of argan trees native to Morocco, has been used for centuries for healing and beauty. As far back as 600 BC, the Phoenicians relied on this valuable, multi-purpose oil to treat a variety of conditions and its use has continued over the centuries, particularly in the Berber community of North Africa. Learn how you can use this Moroccan beauty secret to naturally enhance the look and health of your hair, skin and nails.
It keeps your skin young and luminous
Argan oil may be the key to keeping your skin young and luminous. Due to its high levels of Vitamin E, antioxidants and fatty acids, this golden oil is an ideal treatment for aging skin. These nutrients naturally nourish the skin, repairing damage that inevitably comes with aging and sun exposure, restoring elasticity and possibly preventing wrinkles. By deeply moisturizing the skin without leaving it greasy or irritating it like chemical products can, argan oil gives your face a natural, youthful glow. Simply massage a few drops of this oil into your skin as a moisturizer. It will bring out your natural beauty and make you love your skin even more.
Body moisturizer
If your itchy, dry skin is driving you crazy, try using argan oil as an all-over body moisturizer. Especially if you have conditions such as eczema, you may benefit from the reparative qualities that argan oil offers. Applying a small amount of oil directly onto dry, flaky skin can immediately provide relief and its high content of nutrients and antioxidants will, over time, repair your damaged skin. Argan oil can reduce inflammation, soothe pain, promote healing and restore your skin’s natural beauty.
Because of these regenerative qualities, argan oil can also help prevent stretch marks and perhaps even reduce their appearance. It increases the skin’s elasticity due to its Vitamin E content, making it ideal for anyone who is battling stretch marks due to pregnancy, weight gain/loss, bodybuilding or puberty. Prevention is key, so if you suspect that you may develop stretch marks, start using argan oil as an all-over body moisturizer after showering. You won’t regret it.
Healthy hands and feet
The moisturizing properties of argan oil make it ideal for maintaining healthy hands and feet. If you have brittle nails, rough cuticles, calluses or dry, cracked skin on your hands or feet, try massaging a few drops of argan oil into your problem areas for a few minutes every night, allowing the oil to fully absorb into your skin and work its magic while you sleep. With repeated use, you’ll notice how the skin on your hands and feet becomes increasingly healthier. Mani-pedis will be so much more enjoyable if your skin is already smooth and hydrated.
Acne reducing and scar fading
While you may cringe at the idea of putting oil on your already-oily, acne-prone skin, you may be surprised to know that argan oil may actually reduce acne and fade post-acne scars. Acne is sometimes the result of oily skin, but our skin is often oily because we dry it out with harsh facial cleansers and it reacts by producing even more oil to counteract the dryness. Argan oil mimics the composition of the oils naturally found on our face and hydrates without greasy residue, essentially telling our skin there is no need to produce additional oil and thus preventing breakouts.
Due to the presence of antioxidants, argan oil can treat existing acne by reducing inflammation and healing damaged skin cells, possibly even fading post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation by increasing cell turnover. After thoroughly cleansing your face, try applying a few drops of argan oil twice a day and see if you notice any improvement in your acne or acne scars.
Beautiful and well-groomed lips
Argan oil can also keep your lips beautiful and well-groomed by providing the moisture they need. In extremely cold, hot or dry weather, your lips can dry up like a raisin and become flaky. The antidote is as simple as rubbing a couple of drops of argan oil onto your lips as lip balm. Your lips will feel soft, hydrated and naturally beautiful.
Healthy and shiny hair
Argan oil is a great leave-in conditioner that will keep your hair healthy and shiny. Just as it moisturizes your skin, it can hydrate your hair with its high Vitamin E content, which treats split ends, reduces frizz and gives your hair a natural glow. Just apply a couple of drops of argan oil to your ends. It is non-greasy, will not tangle your hair, will make it more manageable for styling and may even reverse some of the damage done by harsh chemicals or heat. Few beauty products are so versatile.
If you have enjoyed this article, you should read this one retaled to the olive oil benefits.
