Benefits of argan oil for the face
Argan oil is considered one of the most valuable vegetable oils due to its rich composition and beneficial properties. The oil comes from Morocco.
80% of it consists of fatty acids - palmitic, linoleic and oleic.
The oil is rich in vitamins, in particular vitamin E, known as the vitamin of youth, for its unique ability to nourish and restore cells, accelerate the regeneration process and prevent skin aging.
The oil also contains sterols that regulate metabolic processes in cells and carotenoids that protect the skin from free radicals.
How does argan oil work on facial skin?
- Argan oil has anti-inflammatory and healing properties, so it is often used to treat abrasions, wounds and burns.
- Nourishment and hydration are the main characteristics of argan oil, making the product ideal for dry skin.
- The oil helps aging and fading facial skin effectively cope with wrinkles, tightens and improves its tone.
- Argan oil normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, restores and soothes the skin, so it is often used in the fight against acne.
- The oil protects delicate facial skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation.
The history of argan oil
Since time immemorial, Berber women have kept the secrets of preparing this precious product, and considered its production their sacred duty, using it in traditional rituals and national cuisine.
This oil was also used for medical purposes: to treat burns, disinfect wounds, treat various skin diseases, eliminate stretch marks; served as the basis for massage.
But the scope of this invaluable oil was not limited to this; it was indispensable for cosmetic purposes: it was used to nourish and moisturize the skin, and to carefully care for your hair. Thanks to its unique properties, the oil strengthened the hair, gave it strength, and protected it from the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation, which is so important in hot desert conditions.
Interesting Facts
The “iron” argan tree is one of the oldest species on the planet. The tree grows very slowly, reaching a height of 10 - 15 meters, and bears its first fruits after many years. To obtain one liter of oil, more than 35 kg of nuts are required (exceeding the harvest from one tree in a year) and 20 hours of manual work.
About twenty years ago, French and Swiss entrepreneurs were interested in the beneficial properties of the oil, which was the beginning of the reckless exploitation of both the hard work of local women and argan plantations.
Today this relict tree is under threat of extinction.
In 1998, a plantation with an area of about 8 thousand hectares of agrane trees (more than 20 million) was registered in the International Biosphere Reserve, the UNESCO program declared this tree a national treasure, and a reserve was created.
Immerse yourself in ancient Moroccan culture and learn about the production technology of this unique oil, which is now produced in more than 100 cooperatives in Morocco.
This is such an interesting and slightly sad story, but let’s take a closer look at what this exotic argan oil is, what is its composition and properties, why is it called “liquid gold” from Morocco?
Using argan oil on the face
Argan oil can be used in its pure form or added to face masks.
Using oil on the delicate skin around the eyes is effective. The product fights fine wrinkles and gently tightens the skin.
Argan oil makes it easy to remove makeup. The product is used to even out complexion, as well as to get rid of acne and skin diseases.
How to use
It is best to use slightly warmed argan oil, so the penetrating power of the oil will increase and more beneficial substances will reach the target.
In order not to heat the entire container with oil, just rub a couple of drops of the product with your fingertips; they will be enough to nourish the skin of the face.
Before the procedure, cleanse your skin of cosmetics. Apply argan oil using patting movements, paying special attention to wrinkles. Thanks to its light texture, the oil is quickly absorbed. After an hour, blot your face with a dry cloth to remove any remaining natural oil.
Argan oil in cooking. Amla
But, like many other oils, argan is used not only as a cosmetic product. After all, initially the indigenous population of Morocco used it as food. For culinary purposes. It continues to be used now, although, of course, for our latitudes it is a rather exotic and expensive product. The oil tastes somewhat like pumpkin and has a light nutty aroma.
By the way, to prepare edible oil, argan seeds are initially lightly fried, and if the oil is prepared for cosmetic or therapeutic and prophylactic purposes, then the seeds from the fruit do not undergo any heat treatment. This is why the oil is lighter. Edible argan oil is one of the ingredients of the traditional Moroccan paste - amla. In addition to argan oil, it contains honey and chopped almonds. By the way, provided you find the oil, you can try to make it yourself. It is very tasty, healthy and nutritious. It’s not for nothing that Moroccans eat it for breakfast, spreading it on bread, toast or flatbread. And besides this, the oil can be added to fish, meat dishes, and, of course, salads. The main thing to remember is that the oil should not be exposed to strong heat, that is, it is better to add it at the end of cooking or to already cooked dishes.
Face masks with argan oil
At home, masks and compresses are made using argan oil.
Depending on the desired effect and problems with the skin of the face, there are many masks; let’s look at several useful recipes.
Acne mask
Ingredients:
- Argan oil – 10 ml.
- Egg white - 1 pc.
How to prepare: Beat the egg white until foamy, add warm argan oil and stir.
How to use: Cleanse your face of cosmetics. Apply the mask onto the skin using massaging movements and leave for 15 minutes. After this, rinse off the product with warm water.
Result: The mask effectively copes with skin rashes and regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands. After the procedure, the skin calms down and becomes much cleaner. Regular use of the mask protects the skin from re-inflammation.
Anti-wrinkle mask under the eyes
Ingredients:
- Argan oil - 5 ml.
- Olive oil - 5 ml.
- Almond oil - 5 ml.
How to prepare: Mix the oils and steam a little, or rub the mixture in your hands before use.
How to use: Take a small amount of the oil mixture and use your fingertips to apply light patting movements to the area around the eyes, working the oil into wrinkles. After 30 minutes, pat your face with a dry cloth to remove excess oil.
Result: This recipe is suitable for daily use. After the mask, the skin tightens and wrinkles are reduced. Systematic use of the mask nourishes the delicate skin around the eyes and eliminates facial wrinkles.
Mask against peeling skin
Ingredients:
- Argan oil - 10 ml.
- Oatmeal - 1 tablespoon.
- Egg yolk - 1 pc.
- Natural yogurt or sour cream - 1 tablespoon.
How to prepare: Add egg yolk and a spoonful of oatmeal to yogurt, stir. Add warm argan oil and mix everything again.
How to use: Apply the mask to previously cleansed facial skin for 30-40 minutes, then rinse with water. After the procedure, apply nourishing cream.
Result: The mask nourishes dry facial skin and protects against flaking. Regular skin care using this mask will make your skin soft and radiant.
Face cream with argan oil
Face cream based on argan oil moisturizes and nourishes the skin, and does not leave marks on clothes, as it is quickly absorbed.
Thanks to the light texture of the oil, the cream is easily distributed on the skin and does not create a film effect.
Homemade cream with argan oil
Ingredients:
- Wheat germ oil - 30 ml.
- Frankincense essential oil - 7 drops.
- Grapeseed oil - 5 ml.
- Argan oil – 5 ml.
- Avocado oil - 5 ml.
- Beeswax - 2 gr.
How to prepare: Mix all the oils and place in a water bath, heat to a temperature of 33-36 degrees. Grate the beeswax or break it into small pieces, then melt it in a water bath. Gradually combine the melted wax with the oil mixture, pouring it in a thin stream. Beat the resulting mass with a mixer at minimum speed until the cream has cooled.
How to use: Argan oil cream is universal - it is suitable for day and night use. You can store homemade cream for no more than 3 months.
Result: The cosmetic product is suitable for evening out skin tone and eliminating flaking. During the day, the cream nourishes and protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation, and at night it eliminates signs of fatigue and relieves puffiness.
Reviews with before and after photos
Ekaterina, 55 years old
Six months ago I discovered the unique properties of argan oil. On the advice of a friend, I began to use the oil daily for skin care. The effect is simply amazing! The skin became more toned and healthy in appearance, constant flaking disappeared, and there were fewer wrinkles. This oil is my personal cosmetologist.
Maria, 18 years old
Due to constant rashes and inflammations, there was no living space left on the skin of the face; the skin became lumpy and rough. I tried a bunch of products and recipes for caring for problem skin, but I didn’t get the same results as argan oil did! Twice a week I make a mask for problem skin and use the oil in its pure form to treat individual inflammations. After the first week of use, I noticed that my skin became smooth and inflammation almost disappeared!
Elena, 37 years old
I am an actress by profession, so facial wrinkles cannot be avoided, but I have found an effective method to combat them. I came across an article on the Internet about Moroccan argan oil and its miraculous properties. I learned how to use the oil at home and, after two weeks of daily use, I got a noticeable result. The skin smoothed out and wrinkles became less noticeable.
What to remember
- The unique property of argan oil to deeply nourish the skin is highly valued in cosmetology. The product is quickly absorbed without leaving any marks on clothes.
- Argan oil effectively tightens facial skin, eliminates wrinkles and sagging skin. The product is suitable for both young and mature dermis.
- Due to its healing properties, argan oil is widely used in both home and professional cosmetology. Based on it, nourishing face masks are made that cope with most problems.
Reviews
We invite you to read the reviews of ordinary people and cosmetologists about retinoic ointment, and if you have any questions, you can always ask your question on our forum.
“I read reviews from cosmetologists on the Internet that argan oil is good for combination skin. I bought this product at the pharmacy, its price is quite high. I prepared masks for which I mixed the extract with other essential oils and applied it to the face. I was pleased with the result, so I recommend this product to everyone.”
Anna, 35 years old, Moscow
“I have suffered from acne since I was a teenager. I tried many different products, but only argan oil helped. Once a week I made nourishing masks based on it, as a result of which the acne disappeared and my facial skin improved. A total of 10 procedures were required.”
Ekaterina, 20 years old, Volokolamsk
