If you’ve been following Wellness Mama for a while, you’re probably aware that I’m a big fan of coconut oil, using it for everything from cooking to skincare. Another oil I’m fond of is argan oil, which has many benefits for skin, hair, and face.
Argan oil is a valuable edible and cosmetic oil extracted from the kernels of the Argania spinosa fruit. Argan trees, which only grow in Morocco’s desert-like conditions, can live up to 450 years, making this oil quite rare.
To produce an edible oil, argan fruit kernels are roasted, while unroasted kernels yield a cosmetic-grade oil beneficial for skin and hair. Known as “liquid gold,” the oil is packed with nutrients. Because of its rarity, argan oil tends to be pricier than other oils, so I usually add it in small amounts to skin and hair care recipes along with olive or coconut oil.
Argan oil is generally safe to use on the skin. Most people won’t have any negative reactions, but it’s always wise to test a small amount on one area first. I use this oil in my skincare routine to tackle issues like acne, wrinkles, and frizzy hair. Kids can also benefit from argan oil!
Argan oil works wonders for hair, especially dry, brittle, or damaged hair. It nourishes both hair and scalp, giving a smoother, hydrated look. Frizzy hair can be a nuisance, especially in humid climates, and this oil is a popular ingredient in anti-frizz products. However, many of these products contain harmful chemicals, so I prefer to use a few drops of argan oil on my palms to tame frizz and protect my hair from heat damage.
There are various reasons for dry, brittle hair like harsh treatments, pool chlorine, and environmental factors. The vitamin E and fatty acids in argan oil make it an excellent ingredient for smoothing split ends and adding shine. Research in 2013 showed that using an argan oil conditioner after coloring hair can minimize damage, which is why I include it in my Wellnesse Conditioner.
For a simple hair treatment, apply 5-10 drops of warmed argan oil from the scalp to the ends of your hair, and leave it overnight with a shower cap. Rinse it out in the morning for great results. Another favorite treatment of mine involves substituting olive oil with argan oil to deeply moisturize damaged hair.
Argan oil is rich in antioxidants that help tone, hydrate, and heal the skin. I’ve used it in various products, such as salves and lotions. Its benefits include aiding wound healing and soothing skin ulcers and hypertrophic scars. Argan oil supports healthy skin growth, which is why I swap it for olive oil in my homemade salve recipes.
This oil also contains melatonin, which helps protect the skin from sun damage. While aging naturally causes wrinkles, UV exposure can accelerate this. Using argan oil with a carrier oil or in a natural lotion can reduce sun damage and help prevent early aging.
A great benefit of argan oil is its ability to reduce stretch marks. After having six children, I’ve found it to be highly effective. Simply mix a few drops of argan oil with a stretch mark salve and apply daily.
Argan oil enhances the skin’s ability to retain moisture, making it especially useful in dry, cold weather. I like to add a few drops to hand cream or a cracked heel salve for extra hydration.
Argan oil is often included in expensive facial serums to promote healthy skin, but these products can contain unwanted chemicals. I prefer making my own to enjoy the benefits without toxins. Argan oil can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and is particularly effective for improving skin elasticity, as shown in a 2015 study.
Using argan oil as part of my face care routine has been beneficial, helping ward off wrinkles. The herbal face oil I make lasts 6-8 months, which turns out to be cheaper and less risky than Botox.
For those dealing with acne, applying oil might seem counterintuitive, but argan oil can actually help regulate natural oils, reduce inflammation, and support skin health. I use a gentle exfoliant and dab argan oil on my face, which has worked wonders.
Argan oil is also great for lip care, especially during cold months, because of its moisturizing properties. I make a natural lip balm with argan oil to keep my lips soft and smooth.
Argan oil is not just for adults; it’s also safe for children’s sensitive skin. It’s useful for managing skin conditions, soothing irritation, and promoting healthy skin growth, making it a good choice for kids’ skin issues.
Finally, despite argan oil being pricier than other oils, I find it worth the investment to use a natural alternative over store-bought products laden with chemicals. I trust products like those from Plant Therapy for high-quality argan oil.
This article was reviewed by Madiha Saeed, MD, a board-certified family physician. As always, consult your doctor before making changes to your health routine.
Have you tried argan oil yet? Let me know how it works for you!
