For centuries, argan trees have been celebrated as a vital source of nourishment, with Moroccans valuing every drop of argan oil extracted from it. Historically, argan oil was reserved for the elite, including members of the Moroccan royal family. Its exclusivity & rarity, combined with its incredible restorative properties for beauty and health, made it a valuable product amongst the royalties. It was used as an elixir to maintain youthful skin and lustrous hair. The oil was titled "liquid gold," owing to its golden hue and the wealth and purity it symbolized.
Learn about what makes argan oil so precious in the health and beauty world and why it has become a global breakthrough treatment for frizz!
1. Nutrient Powerhouse: What makes argan oil so unique?-
Argan oil is extracted by harvesting the fruit from the argan trees. The fruit is dried, and the pulp is removed to reveal the hard nut. The nut is cracked open to reveal argan kernels. A fine paste is created by grinding the kernels. The cold-pressed method extracts the oil to preserve the nutritional content. A mechanical press yields the rich, golden oil ready for use.
Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, which supports hair health by reducing breakage and split ends. It is rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids. Argan oil is a natural squalene, which is a type of humectant. Phytosterols support cell regeneration, which can help with hair growth and skin healing.
2. From root to tip: how it strengthens and nourishes-
Argan oil hydrates the hair shaft and seals in moisture. It is a natural emollient that smoothens and flattens the hair cuticle. The cuticle is the outer layer of the hair, which can spread open, making hair appear frizzy and lackluster. Argan oil is a natural heat protectant that protects hair from oxidative stress, which can lead to hair damage. It helps balance the scalp's natural oils and helps promote a healthier environment for hair follicles. The amalgam of essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants works together to fix split ends and frizz and improve overall hair resilience.
3. Argan oil vs other oils-
Unlike other hair oils, Argan oil has a very lightweight molecular structure. It is very lightweight and has an almost serum-like consistency. This makes it very versatile. It can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment, styling treatment for hair, or as a daily lightweight moisturizer for the skin.
4. How to use argan oil in your daily routine-
For Hair:
- Leave in serum for shine & frizz control- Take 2-3 drops of argan oil on your palms, rub it well between them, and work through the mid-lengths and ends of your hair.
- Pre-wash deep conditioning treatment- You can also apply a few drops of argan oil directly on your scalp as a pre-wash conditioning treatment. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour before washing.
- Heat protectant- Apply it on the lengths before using your heat styling tools. It can smoothen the cuticles and reduce static damage.
For Skin:
- To use it on your face, take 1-2 drops of argan oil to your fingertips. Gently apply it to your face, and focus on the aging areas.
- Apply it immediately after your shower onto your damp skin. Massage dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels.
- To keep your nails and cuticles strong & hydrated, massage a drop of argan oil.
DIY Argan oil remedies:
- Nourishing Argan Oil face serum- Take 1 tbsp of argan and rosehip oil each. Add 2-3 drops of frankincense essential oil. Mix well and apply it to your face in upward circular motions.
- Argan oil & turmeric spot treatment- Mix 2-3 drops of turmeric essential oil with 2-3 drops of argan oil. Apply to acne spots and leave for 10-15 minutes.
- Argan & coconut oil deep conditioning treatment- Mix equal parts of argan and coconut oil. Apply it to damp hair for better absorption and focus on your ends. Leave for an hour, and wash off with a mild shampoo.
- Argan & rosemary oil for hair fall reduction- Mix 3-5 drops of essential oil into one tablespoon of argan oil. Apply to your scalp and massage gently. Leave for at least an hour before rinsing off.
- Argan & aloe vera treatment for hydration & soothing- Mix 2 tbsp of aloe vera gel with 1 tbsp of argan oil and apply evenly throughout your scalp and ends. Leave for 30- 45 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
5. Debunking common myths:
- Argan oil is only for dry hair, not for skin- Argan oil can also be used on the skin. It balances oil production & non-comedogenic, so even oily skin and scalp types can use it in moderation.
- Argan oil is a natural sunscreen- While argan oil contains antioxidants that protect against environmental damage, it isn't an alternative to a dedicated sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 for adequate sun protection.
- The more argan oil, the better- Using too much of any oil can make it greasy and weigh it down, making it look limp. A few drops of oil are enough to reap the nourishing benefits.
- Argan oil works instantly - Like any natural remedy, change will always be gradual, and consistency and regular application are required to see the best results.
- All argan oil is the same - Many brands have added cheap fillers like mineral oil and other synthetics into cold-pressed oils, including argan oil. The best quality argan oil is the one that is 100% pure, organic, and cold-pressed.
Conclusion:
Argan oil - the good gold of all hair oils, is one to keep for those frizzy hair and dry, crispy skin situations. If you are looking for a lightweight oil for daily moisturizing ends and mid-lengths, Moroccan argan oil is one that you must make space for on your hair care shelf. Especially if you have high porosity hair and your hair loses moisture quickly, even after conditioning several times, argan oil matches you! Give it a chance, and the results will enthrall you!