Just like the little engine that could – well that’s Argan oil, it is the little oil that could. Despite being a go-to beauty secret for Mediterranean women for years, it was not that long ago that it was under the radar in the U.S. beauty market. Now, it’s found in a myriad of different products across the hair and skincare categories, and with good reason.
Derived from the kernels of the argan tree, it is packed with a slew of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids that can work wonders for both hair and skin. For the hair, it’s often used for its top-notch smoothing and shine-boosting prowess. For the skin, it offers deep hydration and antioxidant protection without clogging pores. It is one oil that is most definitely worth adding to your beauty routine, and here’s why.
Benefits for skin:
Being rich in vitamins A and E, antioxidants, and omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids makes argan oil especially effective in firming skin and improving elasticity, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, increasing hydration, and offering protection from free radical damage. Additionally, it has moisturizing, anti-aging, and antioxidant properties. It is considered the best anti-aging product due to its high linoleic acid content that increases the skin’s elasticity and tightens the pores.
Adding argan oil to your daily skincare routine provides moisturizing benefits for morning and night. Great for under-eye issues, argan oil can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness under your eyes. Plus, for those with mildly oily skin and acne-prone skin, using argan oil regularly can help to control excess sebum. As a result, it minimizes the likelihood of breakouts. It’s packed with omega fatty acids, vitamin E, and linoleic acids to lightly moisturize your skin, soften dry patches, and even reduce acne. It is nature’s protective, nourishing superfood for your skin.
Benefits for hair:
Argan oil is relatively light and can be used on all hair textures. Because it is so moisturizing, it serves as a great conditioner or mask for your hair. Since argan oil’s molecules are smaller than other oils, it’s easier to penetrate the hair cuticles. This will make hair softer and more manageable, with less tangles and dryness.
For those who suffer from flakes and dandruff, argan oil is a perfect remedy to soothe an itchy scalp thanks to the anti-inflammatory benefits it provides. Not only this, but it won’t clog pores, which can lead to damaged hair follicles. Speaking of damaged hair follicles, argan oil even prevents heat damage caused by styling tools. This is because of the Vitamin E and fatty acids found in it that protect the hair.
Argan oil also boosts shine. Unlike other bases for hair oils, like coconut and olive oil, argan oil is easily absorbed into the hair strand. That means it doesn’t leave a greasy residue unless overused. Rich in fatty acids, it helps bring shine and luster back into the hair without weighing it down and causing buildup.
Sun protection is important year-round, so it’s great news that argan oil works like a high-quality scalp sunscreen for your hair. It does this by neutralizing free radicals enhanced by the natural environment and sun.
Argan oil encourages new hair growth as well because of the phenols found in it, which are very stimulating to the scalp.
With all the impressive benefits argan oil provides, it has quickly become a gold standard ingredient across the beauty industry.
