What Is Argan Oil, And Why You Should Be Using It.
If I were to tell you of a golden oil that promised to help improve your skin, hair and nails would you be interested?
How about if I told you that it literally grew on trees?
Would that little voice in your head start to question it?
Well fear not, I am talking about Argan oil, and science has proved just how beneficial it can be for your hair, skin, nails, and in fact your entire body.
This article looks at Argan oil, its sources and its uses
Argan Oil
Argan oil is native to the south western areas of Morocco, its extracted from the fruit (that resembles a large olive) of the Argan tree.
Moroccans have used the extract in their traditional treatments for centuries (dating back to 1550 BC), with it being used to treat anything from eczema, psoriasis through to wrinkled skin and hair loss.
Its usually available in two forms, food grade argan oil which is pressed from roasted Argan kernals, this can be used in foods, being perfectly safe for eating.
The uncooked, cold pressed form is the type used in cosmetics, and is the form that can be applied to the hair or skin.
From a nutritional point of view, the Argan kernels are highly beneficial, they are packed with antioxidants, and monosaturated fatty acids.
They contain higher levels of vitamin E than olives (and we know how good they are for us?) These all combine to make Argan oil so good for our hair and skin.
Popular Uses Of Argan Oil
Hydrates And Boosts Skin Elasticity
For some more informed users, Argan Oil has become one of the ‘go to’ products, the main reason for this is its ability to soften the skin, making it look and feel more supple.
Its high levels of Vitamin E and essential fatty acids can moisturise and hydrate.
A study carried out in 2015 looked at the effect it had on the skin of menopausal women, when used topically, it was shown to help improve skin elasticity
Helps Treat Stretch Marks
If used early enough, a study released in the Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology reported that Argan oil when applied topically demonstrated the ability to prevent and treat the early onset of stretch marks in pregnant women.
Guards Against Dark Spots
The effects of Argan oil to not just stop at the hydration and boosting your skins look and feel, it can visibly boost its appearance too.
Many of us have unsightly dark spots or larger areas of discolouration, most often caused by over exposure to the sun over the years (without sunscreen) , or too many sun bed sessions.
Science has shown that it can help to treat and reverse the appearance of dark spots.
A key study carried out in 2013 demonstrated its ability to help reduce the cellular damage caused by environmental toxins ( free radicals) and the damage to the pigment cells responsible for the release and over distribution of Melanin.
Reduces Acne Breakouts
It is thought that Argan oil could be useful at reducing breakouts in those with acne prone skin.
A study published in the Alternative Medicine Review showed that twice daily application of topical oil over a four week period, helped to lower sebum (our skins natural oil) production and improved complexion.
The result was less trapped oil, fewer spots and overall, much clearer skin.
Strengthens And Protects Hair
One of the earliest uses of Argan Oil. There are some well publicised evidence that support its traditional uses as a hair strengthening treatment.
One study showed just how effective it was at reducing the damage caused by hair colouring treatments
Another study showed just how effective it was and boosting hair strength, quality and shine.
It is also excellent at strengthening brittle nails.
Argan Oil – What To Consider When Buying
This is a fantastic addition to your daily skin (and hair) care routine. In its pure form you can apply it directly to your face and/or hair, and you can also find it infused in certain face creams and hair products.
Point to note – In its purest form, it has a shelf life expectancy of 12-16 weeks.
The Argan trees are becoming endangered in some areas of Morocco, largely due to deforestation and over use, which is worrying as the trees help to maintain water levels and stop soil erosion.
The high demand for it has also led to some manufacturers using unfair labour practices and paying poor wages with the staff working to harvest it being exploited in some cases.
With this in mind, always look for products that have been sustainably sourced with fair trade practices.
I Recommend
“ Of all the treatments out there, I love Skinception Argan Oil – It contains a cold pressed form of pure Argan oil, it feels great on my skin and has done wonders for boosting its look and appearance.”
Have you ever tried Argan Oil? Did it help improve your skin or hair? Any product recommendations?
Please let us know, using the common form below.
Hi There, My name Is Donna, I am 61 years young, I have daughter of 36, and live in Hertfordshire, just north of London.
A very big welcome to Green Geranium.
I am passionate about skincare, I have a key interest in products and routines that help look after and care for slightly older skin.
As I have got that little bit older myself, and largely based on my own experiences, my main aim has been trying to answer skincare questions and problems faced by women of a certain age.
I love to personally try and review various skin care products, in particular those that are suitable for women aged 40 and over, in an industry that tends to favour the young, I believe that a woman can look amazing at any age.
My mission is to get everything together on this website to help you create or improve your own skincare regime, and hopefully allow you to achieve the flawless skin that we all desire.
I have done my very best to make sure that the articles and product reviews are clear and concise, to help you find the right product for your skin type and skincare routine.
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Thanks Donna x