Argan oil, which is made from the kernels of argan trees, is one of the most wonderful natural oils you can incorporate into your skincare and haircare routines. And with good reason. Argan oil has an impressive list of perks due to its natural composition.
It contains high amounts of oleic and linoleic acids, which help maintain a healthy skin barrier. These acids also feed our skin with essential fatty acids such as omega-3, 6 and 9, which are not naturally produced in the human body. The omega fatty acids can help prevent lines and wrinkles.
As if that is not enough, the vitamin E in argan oil helps maintain skin’s youthfulness by scavenging free radicals. Argan oil also aids in healing the skin’s outer layer by preventing transepidermal water loss. As for hair, it preserves melanin while preventing damage to the exterior cuticle of the hair shaft.
Let us take a closer look at all the beauty benefits of argan oil and how you can incorporate it into your routine:
- Deeply moisturising
Argan oil works wonders when it comes to moisturising your skin. That is why it is common in lotions, soaps, and hair conditioners. Its moisturising effects are largely due to its abundance of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that can help improve water retention in the skin.
Argan oil is suitable for all skin types; those with dry skin will benefit from its hydrating properties, while those with oily skin will find it pleasant because it is light and does not leave the skin feeling greasy.
- Sun protection
Moroccan women have used argan oil to protect their skin from sun damage for ages. Scientific studies have found that the antioxidants in argan oil help protect the skin from free radical damage that is caused by harmful sun rays.
It can help prevent sunburns and hyperpigmentation. In the long term, incorporating argan oil into your skincare routine can help prevent the development of skin cancer.
- Treats acne and reduces oiliness
If you have oily, acne-prone skin, adding more oil is not the first thing that comes to mind. However, it may be more beneficial than you realise. One study found that applying argan oil twice daily for four weeks reduced sebum (aka oil) and resulted in less glossy skin.
If you have been battling acne, argan oil can help. Argan oil has anti-sebum properties, which means it can help regulate sebum levels on your skin.
Hormonal acne is usually caused by excess sebum. Argan oil can help treat different kinds of acne while promoting a smoother, calmer complexion. Due to all its beauty benefits, argan oil can also help fade acne scars.
To treat acne, apply pure argan oil to your skin twice a day. Squeeze a few drops onto your palm and rub the oil into your skin in circular motions. Alternatively, add a few drops of pure argan oil into your lotion or moisturiser.
- Fades dark spots and scars
Argan oil can help enhance and lighten your skin tone if you have hyperpigmentation, or brown spots on the skin caused by hormones, ageing, or years of sun exposure.
Tocopherols (vitamin E compounds) in argan oil can limit the creation of extra pigment from melasma or scars. Animal studies suggest that argan oil can also speed up the healing of burn scars. Another study found that a water-in-oil cream containing argan oil significantly improves skin elasticity to prevent stretch marks.
For scar treatment, apply argan oil directly to the affected area at least twice a day. Be patient, it might take some time to see significant results.
- Wonderful for hair
Due to its moisturising properties, argan oil is an excellent hair conditioner and hair mask. The molecules in argan oil are smaller than those of other oils, making it easier for it to permeate the hair cuticles and make your hair smoother and more manageable.
The fatty acids in argan oil help bring out the shine in your hair, all without weighing it down and causing buildup. In addition, argan oil can help soothe an itchy scalp and prevent heat and sun damage on your hair.
Apply a few drops of argan oil to wet, cleansed hair. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes. It is advisable to put on a shower cap while the argan oil sits in your hair to lock in the moisture and other benefits. Rinse thoroughly.
