The beauty secrets of argan oil

Argan oil has been used for centuries in Morocco and other parts of Africa for its healing properties. It’s also known as “liquid gold” because of its high concentration of antioxidants.

Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s also an excellent moisturizer and helps prevent premature aging.

I’ve been using argan oil for years now and I’m always amazed at how much better my oily skin looks after using it. In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about argan oil. You won’t believe the results!

What Is Argan Oil?

It’s a type of nut-based oil that comes from the fruit kernels of the Argan tree native to North African countries such as Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, and Morocco. The trees grow wild on rocky hillsides where they are protected by strong winds. They produce large fruits with hard shells which contain up to 50% kernel or seed. In order to extract the oil, the seeds must be roasted first. This process removes most of their protein content but leaves behind some nutrients like zinc, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, sodium, selenium, and vitamins A, D, K, C, and E.

This makes argan oil one of nature’s richest sources of natural Vitamin E.

What are the Main Ingredients of an Argan Oil?

There are two types of oils: liquid and solid. Liquid oil contains about 80 percent triglycerides while the solid type consists of 20 percent fatty acids. Both contain vitamin E but the liquid oil also contains Vitamin K1 which helps prevent blood clotting.

Vitamin E

It is known for its antioxidant properties and protects against free radicals. It prevents premature aging and wrinkles. Antioxidants

Antioxidant activity can help protect your body from damage caused by oxidation. Oxidation occurs when oxygen molecules react chemically with certain substances within our bodies. Free radicals cause cell membranes to become damaged and may lead to cancerous tumors.

Minerals

Minerals found in argan oil include zinc, magnesium, iron, and copper. These elements play important roles in maintaining healthy bones, teeth, muscles, hair, nails, and immune system function. Minerals also promote good circulation and energy levels.

Essential Fatty Acids

These fats provide nourishment to cells and tissues. EFAs have anti-inflammatory effects and support proper brain development. Essential fatty acids are necessary for the normal growth and maintenance of all organs including the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, eyes, ears, stomach, intestines, pancreas, prostate gland, testicles, ovaries, breasts, uterus, and vagina. How Does Argan Oil Work?

When applied topically, argan oil penetrates deep into the layers of the epidermis and stimulates collagen production. Collagen is responsible for keeping dry skin firm and elastic. When we age, collagen breaks down and becomes less effective. As a result, fine lines appear around the mouth and eyes. Using argan oil will restore lost collagen and keep your face looking young.

How Does Argan Oil Work?

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects your cells against free radicals produced during normal metabolism. Free radical damage can lead to wrinkles, age spots, sunburned skin, dryness, inflammation, and even cancer. Antioxidants help neutralize these harmful compounds before they cause any harm.

Antioxidant activity is measured in units called ORAC. One unit represents the amount of oxygen consumed when 1 milliliter of pure water reacts with 2 micrograms of the sample under standardized conditions.

A higher number means more powerful anti-oxidative effects. According to research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, argan oil contains over 100 times more ORAC than olive oil. That’s why it works so well as a face cream. In addition to being highly effective at fighting off free radicals, argan oil provides many benefits including:

Moisturizing Your Skin

Because it’s made from nuts instead of plants, argan oil doesn’t leave an oily residue on your skin. Plus, unlike plant oils, it penetrates deep into pores without clogging them.

That’s great news if you have acne-prone skin since it will keep excess oil away while still keeping moisture locked inside your pores. Anti-aging Properties

According to dermatologists, argan oil may slow down signs of aging due to its ability to protect collagen fibers. Collagen is responsible for giving our skin structure and elasticity. As we get older, our bodies start producing less collagen leading to sagging facial features.

In fact, studies show that people who use argan oil regularly experience smoother, firmer-looking skin.

Skin Healing Power

When applied topically, argan oil speeds wound healing time. It also helps prevent scarring because it reduces swelling and promotes cell growth.

Anti-inflammatory Effects

Argan oil has potent anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful for treating eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and other inflammatory skin disorders.

Protecting Against Sun Damage

Sun exposure causes premature aging and wrinkling. But the regular application of argan oil prevents UV rays from damaging your skin. Treating Acne

While there isn’t much scientific evidence proving that argan oil treats acne, anecdotal reports suggest that using this oil daily can reduce breakouts.

What Are Some Uses For Argan Oil?

There are several ways to incorporate argan oil into your skincare routine. You can apply it directly onto your skin after cleansing or mix it with moisturizer. Here are just a few ideas:

1) Use it as a makeup primer. Apply a small amount around your eyes and blend out thoroughly. This makes your foundation last longer by preventing creasing.

2) Mix one part argan oil with two parts coconut oil. Then massage it all over your body until completely absorbed. The combination creates a softening effect that leaves your skin feeling smooth and supple.

3) Add some to your hair conditioner. If you’re looking for extra shine, try mixing equal amounts of argan oil and jojoba oil together.

4) Try adding a little bit to your bathwater. Not only does it smell amazing, but it’ll help soften rough patches on your feet.

5) Put a drop or two on your lips before applying lipstick. Lip balm mixed with argan oil keeps your lips hydrated throughout the day. 6) Rub a tiny dab under your nails once a week. It removes dead skin cells and protects against nail fungus.

7) massage a couple of drops into your scalp every night. It stimulates circulation which improves blood flow and encourages healthy hair follicles.

8) Make homemade lip gloss! Combine 1/8 cup shea butter, 2 tablespoons of beeswax, 3 teaspoons cocoa powder, and 4 ounces of almond oil in a double boiler. Stir constantly until melted. Remove from heat and add 5 drops each of rosemary essential oil and orange blossom water. Blend well. Store in refrigerator.

9) Keep a bottle of argan oil next to your bedside table so you always feel ready for the morning. 10) To keep your hands soft and youthful-looking, rub them with a mixture of olive oil and argan oil.

11) When cooking, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on food while they’re still hot. Cinnamon contains antioxidants called cinnamaldehyde that fight free radicals.

12) After washing dishes, rinse off any excess soap residue with warm water and then pat dry with paper towels.

Why is argan oil effective for your skin?

Josie Maran and New York City dermatologist Patricia Wexler, M.D. Together, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about argan oil, and serving up a few of our favorite products, so you can get in on the glow-maker everyone loves.

The first thing you should know about argan oil is that it comes from the kernels of nuts called “argal” — specifically, the nut inside the fruit of the Moroccan desert tree known as the argali acacia. The trees grow only in southwestern Morocco, where they are protected by law. They produce their fruits between November and February when temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once harvested, the nuts must be dried before being cracked open with stone tools. Inside, there’s an inner kernel covered in a thick layer of creamy white flesh. That’s what gives this oil its distinctive texture: It has more than twice the concentration of vitamin E found in other oils like soybean or sunflower seed oil. And because it’s high in polyphenols, it also helps protect your skin from UV damage.

As a result, the skin is left feeling soft and smooth with no irritation or dryness.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries in Morocco as an anti-aging treatment. Argan oil contains vitamin E which helps protect against free radicals that can cause premature aging. It also provides moisture to your hair and nails while helping prevent dandruff.