Uses for Argan Oil

Dry Hair...and skin too? Freaked out? courtesy of .womenfitness.net

Dry skin, dull hair, brittle cuticles—do they freak you out? If you’ve been wondering just how to get rid of these annoying problems, you don’t have to look high and low in the cosmetic aisle. There is a natural oil, taken from the argan nut that has amazing cosmetic and therapeutic properties. Although the Berber women of Morocco have long known this beauty secret, the world is just catching on. In fact, argan oil is now used in various cosmetic products including moisturizer, soaps and hair products.

So what the hype about? Let’s find out.

 Interesting Facts About Argan Oil:

• Argan oil is extracted from the nuts of the Argan trees, Argania spinosa.
• Argan trees grow exclusively on the southwestern part of Morocco.
• The oil is extracted by hand and it’s labor intensive. The raw form is used for beauty and cosmetic purposes. The oil extracted from the roasted nuts is used for cooking purposes, so look for raw organic argan oil if you’re using it for your skin and hair.
• The oil, also known as liquid gold because of its magical healing and therapeutic capabilities, is rich in skin-rejuvenating nutrients, hydrating essential fatty acids, powerful antioxidants and polyphenols that are three times higher than vitamin E.

What’s so Special about Argan Oil? Argan oil has the following:

Vitamin F

Vitamin F which is made up of two essential fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids and omeg-6 fatty acids). In terms of skin health, vitamin F brings about cell rejuvenation to keep skin looking supple and young. It fights wrinkles, dryness and premature aging.

Vitamin E

Helps to protect against ultraviolet radiation and promote cutaneous micro-circulation, keeping skin nourished and healthy.

Phenols

Phenols are powerful antioxidants. They also exert anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial capabilities. As such, argan oil is often used to treat skin problems such as acne, scars, eczema and psoriasis. It can also provide relief for rheumatism, arthritis and sore muscles.

Squalene

 Is a necessary component of skin surface lipids and it helps to promote healthy and youthful-looking skin.

How Can You Use Argan Oil for Your Benefit?

Skincare

Since argan oil is rich in skin-rejuvenating nutrients, use argan oil to moisturize skin. Simply add a drop of argan oil and mix it with your moisturizer to moisturize skin. You can also use it on its own, under makeup. Argan oil has an inbuilt sun protection factor, so it’s ideal for daywear. Since argan oil is very rich, a little goes a long way. People with very dry skin may also use it at night to revitalize skin.

Haircare

If you’re out in the sun a lot or you treat your hair with chemicals often, hair can become dry and damaged. Rescue poor hair health by applying argan oil. Start with the ends and work your way to the scalp. Wrap hair with towel and shampoo off after 30 minutes.

Therapeutic Effects on Body

When used as massage oil, argan oil may ease tired, stressed muscle, joint pain and aches. Add argan oil to body moisturizer and massage into skin after a shower. Alternatively, fix up a massage blend using carrier oils (such as sweet almond oil, olive oil, avocado) and argan oil and massage body for a relaxing experience.

Other Uses

Rub argan oil on brittle cuticles to promote healthy nails. Chapped lips? Inflamed, sunburned skin?—apply argan oil and allow the healing properties of argan oil to do its work.