Argan Oil: When and How To Use It
Argan oil is quickly becoming known as a must-have product in the beauty industry. It’s a natural oil derived from the kernels of the argan tree, and it’s incredibly nourishing and beneficial to the skin and hair. It’s packed with antioxidants, healthy fatty acids, and essential vitamins that can help support the skin’s natural barrier and promote cell turnover.
In this post, we’ll discuss the many benefits of argan oil, as well as when and how to use it. We’ll also explain the different types of argan oil and how to ensure you are getting the highest quality product for your skin and hair.
What is Argan Oil?
Argan oil is a nut oil made from the kernels of the argan tree, which is native to Morocco. It is composed of many beneficial components such as fatty acids, antioxidants, carotenoids, and vitamin E.
Because of its components, argan oil can benefit the skin in many ways. It has anti-aging properties, helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines caused by sun damage, and softens dry skin. It can also help treat acne and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Argan oil can also benefit hair by helping to strengthen it, reduce dryness and dandruff, and protect against heat damage when styling.
How To Use Argan Oil
Facial Skin Care
Cleansing
To cleanse your face with argan oil, apply a few drops onto your fingertips and massage into damp skin in a circular motion. Rinse off with warm water afterwards; no need to use soap or facial cleanser. Once your face is completely dry, you may proceed with your regular skin care routine if desired.
Moisturizing
For added moisture to the skin, apply a few drops of argan oil onto your fingertips and massage into damp skin in a circular motion. This can be done after cleansing or on its own as an alternative moisturizer for extra hydration.
Treating Acne
To treat acne or help clear up clogged pores apply a few drops directly onto the affected area and gently massage in a circular motion until absorbed into the skin. Let sit overnight or wash off after 10-15 minutes if desired. This can be done once or twice daily as desired; however with acne treatments, less is more, so start by applying every few days to avoid overloading the skin’s natural oils.
Anti-aging
Applying argan oil around the eyes can help reduce wrinkles and dark circles caused by sun damage and aging because of its high vitamin E content, which helps hydrate and repair damaged cells. Apply 1-2 drops onto fingertips and dab around eye area gently until absorbed; no need to rinse afterwards as it acts as an overnight treatment for aging around the eyes/face area.
Hair Care
Shampooing
To use argan oil as shampoo, wet hair until damp but not dripping wet, then apply 1-2 teaspoons of oil directly onto scalp. You can mix it with other hair oils or conditioners for added moisture if desired. Massage into scalp in a circular motion for three minutes or longer if desired; it should feel like light pressure, easy scrubbing of the scalp. Add water as necessary to keep moist while massaging the scalp, and rinse thoroughly after 2-3 minutes, then proceed with the rest of your hair care routine. Do not use shampoo after using argan oil.
Conditioning
To use argan oil as conditioner, mix 1 teaspoon with another conditioner, then apply onto damp or wet hair starting from ends, then up toward the roots but not on the scalp. Massage into hair gently in a circular motion, then leave on for five minutes before rinsing out completely. You can adjust the time it’s spent on your hair based on the way your hair is. Follow up with your usual hair routine afterward.
Treating Dandruff
Apply 1-2 teaspoons directly onto your scalp and leave it there for about 15-20 minutes. Then, you can either rinse it out completely or mix it with coconut, olive, or jojoba oil for an extra moisturizing boost. Apply that onto your scalp for another 15 minutes and then rinse it out as well. To control dandruff and add some shine and moisture back to your hair, do this once or twice a week.
Hair Styling
For short or medium-length hair, apply 1 teaspoon of argan oil, which is just enough that your hands won’t feel super slippery. Then, use your fingers to work it through your hair, styling it how you want. Use very light pressure when doing so to avoid overworking the cuticles, which could cause breakage. Follow up with some styling tools, like a blow dryer or curler to refine your look.
Tips for Purchasing Argan Oil
Quality
When shopping for argan oil, pay attention to its weight. It should feel light but not too thin, and smell lightly nutty without being overwhelming. Both traits should indicate the argan oil you purchased is of high quality.
Ingredients
Also look at other ingredients listed, such as seed oils like jojoba seed oil or olive oil. These indicate added moisturizing benefits which can further enhance your skin and hair when used regularly. Avoid bottles listing strong fragrances since they typically contain added synthetic ingredients.
Conclusion
Argan oil is a versatile and beneficial product that can be used on the skin, hair, and nails. It is composed of many different nutrients that work together to hydrate, repair, and protect the skin, hair, and nails. Argan oil also has anti-aging properties, helps reduce wrinkles, and soothes acne. This article discussed when and how to use argan oil, as well as tips for purchasing the best quality, organic argan oil. By following the advice in this article, you can reap the benefits of argan oil and enjoy beautiful, healthy skin and hair.