Argan Oil: The Secret Weapon For Skin Woes

Argan oil is popularly known for solving hair issues and promoting hair growth. But, did you know that it can solve your skin woes as well? This nourishing oil is exceptionally gentle and lightweight, and can also be used for skin care purposes. Here’s why argan oil is beneficial for your skin and how to incorporate it in your daily skincare routine!

What Our Experts Say

“First of all, argan oil has zero comedogenic index, which means it can never clog your pores. Secondly, it is enriched with antioxidants and vitamins. It promotes cell regeneration and regulates sebum production which helps in controlling acne breakouts. Argan oil also deeply moisturizes your skin.”

-Prajkta Sapre, (PG, Cosmetic Technology) Product Development Executive, SkinKraft

Highlights:

• What Does Argan Oil Do For Your Face?
• How To Use Argan Oil For Your Face?
• What Are The Benefits Of Argan Oil For Face?
• Which Is The Best Argan Oil For Face?
• Side Effects Of Argan Oil

What Does Argan Oil Do For Your Face?

Argan oil comes from the kernels of argan trees, which are native to Morocco. It has impressive hydrating qualities and powerful antioxidant properties that make it highly potent to treat both hair and skin issues.[1] Argan oil is widely sold as pure oils and used in multiple cosmetic products for topical usage. You can also consume argan oil in supplement capsule forms.

Argan oil is lightweight on the skin and suits all skin types. It is filled with omega fatty acid, linoleic acid and vitamin E that moisturizes your skin from deep within. It works as a protective barrier for your skin against dry patches and aging signs.

How To Use Argan Oil For Your Face?

1. As A Skin Moisturizer

Buy pure argan oil from the market. Use two to three drops of the oil and massage your face with it for 2 to 3 minutes. You can either do it in the morning before starting your day or you can apply it at night. Wash your face after 15 minutes of application.

2. As A Toner

Argan oil can be used with your regular toner as well. Mix your toner and 2 drops of argan oil. Using a cotton pad, dab it all over your face. Let it stay for 10 to 15 minutes before applying anything else.

3. As An Exfoliator

Argan oil is a great moisturizer. You can mix 2 to 3 drops of the oil with a little amount of sugar and gently exfoliate your face. Once you are done exfoliating, wash your face with warm water.

4. As A Serum

Mix a few drops of argan oil into your serum and let your skin soak the serum for a while. Then proceed with the rest of your skincare routine.

What Are The Benefits Of Argan Oil For Face?

1. Moisturizes skin

It may sound surprising, but argan oil is widely used as a moisturizer. Most moisturizing soaps, lotions and creams contain argan oil. You can use the oil directly on your skin for moisturizing purposes or you can even consume it. Argan oil is largely sold as supplementary capsules for oral consumption. Also, it easily gets absorbed into the skin. Thus, you can use it both at night and in the morning.

Important Note:

If you are using argan oil during the day, let your skin soak the oil completely before you apply any makeup or other products.

2. Reduces Acne Breakout

The key reason for acne breakout is excessive sebum oil production. Argan oil is known to have sebum-regulating properties that can keep the acne breakout under control. This is why most acne-controlling creams have argan oil as their primary ingredient.

As per our Product Development Executive, Prajkta Sapre, “First of all, argan oil has zero comedogenic index, which means it can never clog your pores. Secondly, it is enriched with antioxidants and vitamins. It promotes cell regeneration and regulates sebum production, which helps in controlling acne breakouts. Argan oil also deeply moisturizes your skin.”

Argan oil, not only reduces acne breakout, it also smoothens your skin texture.[2] Use it at least twice a week to get the best results.

3. Fights Against Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a disturbing skin condition that makes your skin itchy and flaky. Studies have shown that argan oil is capable of treating atopic dermatitis symptoms. Since argan oil has vitamin E and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps to heal itching, redness and skin irritation. A study on vitamin E in dermatology indicates that vitamin E is used to treat dermatitis patients.

4. Anti-Aging Agent

Argan oil has anti-aging properties. If used consistently, it can reduce your wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. It boosts the skin regeneration rate and increases skin elasticity. [3] Also, its highly hydrating nature makes your skin softer and plumper. Experts suggest that a combination of oral and topical usage of argan oil is beneficial to reduce aging signs.

5. Controls The Oil Balance

Oily skin is not new to most of you. A lot of people suffer from excessively oily skin, which leads to multiple skin issues. Thankfully, argan oil has sebum-reducing capabilities that keep sebum production under control. [4] Four weeks of its application can maintain the oil balance of your skin.

6. Prevents Stretch Marks

While stretch marks are common during and after pregnancy, any person can experience it at any point in their life. While losing or gaining weight, people get stretch marks in many parts of their bodies. Thighs, lower belly, and breasts are commonly affected body parts. A preliminary study suggests that a water-in-oil anti-stretch mark cream containing argan oil enhanced skin elasticity and reduced stretch marks.

7. Heals Wounds

Argan oil is a powerful source of antioxidants and vitamin E. This is a great combination when it comes to treating wounds and cuts. Regular oral consumption of argan oil supplements can help you heal the wounds faster.

8. Treats Skin Infections

This oil has anti-bacterial and fungicidal resources that help in fighting different skin infections. Naturally, using it for the skin can protect it from many anti-bacterial and fungal infections.

9. Protects From Sun Damage

A 2013 study shows that argan oil is used to treat sun damage after prolonged sun exposure. [5] Being a native of Morocco, this oil is well in demand among Moroccan women. Anecdote data suggests that Moroccan women use argan oil to protect their skin from sun damage.

10. Treats Certain Skin Conditions

Extensive healing properties make argan oil an excellent ingredient for many skin conditions. In addition, it has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective in treating symptoms of skin conditions like psoriasis and rosacea.

Which Is The Best Argan Oil For Face?

Go for a pure cold-pressed argan oil when it comes to skincare use. Organic and natural oil is the best option for your skin. Avoid buying products that have added preservatives, fragrances and chemicals. Also, keep in mind that the oil is expensive, as its extraction method is a laborious one. If you are getting the oil at a very cheap price, you might need to verify the authenticity of the product.

Side Effects Of Argan Oil

Argan oil is usually tolerable by most people. However, in very rare cases, some people have complained about slight side effects like skin irritation and rashes.

People who have nut allergies may experience an allergic reaction to argan oil. Argan oil comes from a stone fruit but it can still aggravate allergic reactions to people who have nut allergies. Conduct a small patch test to avoid such side effects.

Oral consumption of argan oil supplements may cause mild digestive issues and nausea. You may also experience bloating, loss of appetite, skin rashes and acne breakouts.

Wrapping Up

Argan oil has been used for hair care and skin care for ages now. It has immense healing properties that can protect your skin from multiple skin woes. You can either directly apply it to your skin or orally consume it as supplementary capsules.

But do not rely on argan oil alone to treat serious skin conditions like psoriasis or rosacea. Talk to your dermatologist to get proper treatment. You can use argan oil alongside the medication if your doctor approves.

Begin By Knowing Your Skin