When it comes to beauty products, you are likely to come across a multitude of different brands, many of which are touting the same ingredients, like aloe vera, coconut oil & rosehip oil. Another one you might be familiar with is Argan oil. This oil is affordable and looks, smells & feels luxurious on your skin and hair, all thanks to its golden hue, nutty aroma & pleasantly light texture.
Since argan oil is so rich in vitamin E, fatty acids, squalene & antioxidants, and other beneficial nutrients, it can do wonders for your skin and hair. This oil is made from the kernels that grow on the argan trees, which are native to Morocco. It’s most frequently sold as a pure oil and can be directly applied topically (straight to the skin) or ingested to provide several health benefits and uses, which we have discussed here, read on for more.
Benefits of Argan oil for skin
- Protects from sun damage
Since ages, Moroccan women have been using argan oil to protect their skin from sun damage. A 2013 study found that the antioxidant activity in argan oil helps in protecting the skin against free radical damage caused by the sun. It prevented burns and hyperpigmentation, and in the long term, this may even help prevent the development of skin cancer, including melanoma.
- Treats some skin conditions
Argan oil contains a myriad of healing properties, including antioxidant & anti-inflammatory properties. Both help to reduce symptoms for some different inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea and psoriasis. Rosacea may be best treated by taking oral supplements and apply pure argan oil directly to patches of skin affected by psoriasis for the best results. This oil also reduces oiliness in the skin.
- Treats acne
Excess sebum caused by hormones often results in Hormonal acne. Argan oil possesses anti-sebum effects, which regulate amounts of sebum on the skin. It helps in treating many different types of acne & promotes a smoother, calmer complexion.
- Heals skin infections
One of the traditional uses of argan oil is to treat skin infections. Argan oil also has both fungicidal & antibacterial properties, which gives it the capability to help treat and prevent both bacterial and fungal skin infections. Apply argan oil to the affected area at least twice a day.
- Improves wound healing
Antioxidants are a powerful force. The potent combination of antioxidants & vitamin E found in argan oil can be used to help wounds and cuts heal faster. Take argan oil supplements regularly to experience the benefit throughout the body.
- Has anti-aging effects
Argan oil is also used as an anti-aging treatment. Researchers found that a combination of oral & cosmetic argan oil led to a significant increase in elasticity of the skin, which provides the effective anti-aging treatment.
How can you use Argan oil on your face?
Technically, oils are not moisturisers; they are considered “occlusives,” an unusual word that means they act as a barrier to keep moisture from evaporating out of your skin (like the aluminium foil that keeps your food warm). So it’s best to apply this oil on slightly damp skin (to trap all that water in your pores) or rub it on over your moisturizer (to lock in all of the hydrating ingredients).
Since argan oil is relatively lightweight, it sinks in and absorbs rather quickly, which leaves you with a subtle, glowy sheen rather than an oil slick. If you’re worried about looking shiny during the day, try applying oils after washing your face at night. Your pillowcase might be left with some oil marks, but they’re worth it when you’ve got a nourishing, softening, acne-fighting, scar-fading, lightweight, hydrating, non-clogging miracle in a bottle.
At Francis Soap Shop, we have all kinds of Argan Oil available with us in different quantities. We recommend getting one at the earliest to rejuvenate your skin and make your body healthy.