In the modern world of beauty, Argan Oil is often referred to as “liquid gold” but this powerful and versatile ingredient has been used for centuries, thanks to its wide-ranging health and beauty benefits. And for good reason: rich in Vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, this plant-derived oil has a host of protective, nourishing, and hydrating properties. From reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to protecting hair from heat damage, Argan Oil is a staple ingredient in many clean beauty routines, so how can you incorporate this hero multitasker into yours to achieve healthy, glowing skin and soft, shiny hair? Read on for our comprehensive guide to Argan Oil.
What is Argan Oil?
Derived from cold-pressing the kernels of the fruit of the native-to-Morocco Argan Tree, Argan Oil (also known as Moroccan Oil) is a powerhouse ingredient that is highly beneficial for both skin and hair. Packed with skin-loving fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E, this light plant-based oil is considered to be non-comedogenic, safe, and beneficial for all skin types, making it a popular ingredient in many clean skin and hair care products.
Argan Oil is often found in single ingredient oil formulas, as it has a host of benefits when simply used on its own, but it can also be found in oil blends, moisturizers, and a wealth of hair products. Rich in tocopherols and fatty acids such as oleic acid, linoleic acid, stearic and palmitic acid, which are essential to skin barrier function, Argan Oil is also high in free radical scavenging antioxidants that protect skin cell function and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and heal a variety of skin conditions.
What Are the Benefits of Argan Oil for Skin?
Argan Oil's ability to instantly hydrate and smooth skin has earned it a reputation as a key player in any skincare moisturizing routine, but this ingredient is a true multitasker with many additional benefits. A natural emollient, Argan Oil prevents transepidermal water loss and locks moisture into the skin, supporting barrier function and keeping skin soft, supple, and hydrated. Rich in CoQ10 and Vitamin E–both potent antioxidants–Argan Oil also works to reduce the damaging effects of free radicals and UV exposure, while naturally occurring Vitamin A can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production. Studies have also shown that daily topical application of Argan Oil improves skin elasticity. Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids, meanwhile, provide anti-inflammatory properties that can help to relieve the symptoms of eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and rosacea.
Lightweight, non-greasy, and with a rating of 0 on the non-comedogenic scale, Argan Oil is also highly unlikely to clog pores and cause breakouts. And while it’s a hero ingredient for dry skin, even oily skin can benefit from this oil, as studies have also shown that it has anti-sebum activity, reducing greasiness and improving appearance of oily facial skin, which combined with its anti-inflammatory action can make it useful for those suffering from acne.
What Are the Benefits of Argan Oil for Hair?
Argan Oil has been used for centuries for its nourishing and conditioning properties, thanks to its rich composition of fatty acids, which help to moisturize the hair and seal the hair's cuticle, leaving it soft, silky, and more manageable. But that's not all: regular use of Argan Oil can also improve hair elasticity, helping to prevent breakage and split ends while reducing frizz and flyaways, leaving hair looking smoother and more polished. For those who regularly use styling tools, Argan Oil also offers heat-protecting properties and prevents damage caused by UV exposure. Just as with our skin, Argan Oil’s anti-inflammatory and anti-sebum activity can help to soothe and calm a dry, itchy scalp and reduce dandruff and flakiness, all while maintaining balanced oil levels, making it suitable for all hair types and textures including natural and curly hair.
How to Use Argan Oil In Your Skincare and Haircare Routine
Argan Oil is suitable for all skin types, and it can be used as both part of your morning and nighttime routine. It can also be used as a spot treatment for dry patches, acne scars, or even hyperpigmentation, thanks to its high levels of naturally-occurring Vitamin E. In hair care, Argan Oil can also be used regularly when incorporated into shampoos and conditioners or as a pre-heat styling or leave-in conditioning treatment. A true clean beauty essential, here are some of our favorite Argan Oil products for top-to-toe skin and hair health.