7 Beauty Uses For Argan Oil

7 Beauty Uses For Argan Oil

You hear about argan oil a lot in beauty. It seems to be in everything from lotions to hair dyes. But what is it, really? It’s an oil that comes from the kernels of argan trees, which are native to Morocco. The oil is used for its versatile beauty benefits, from moisturizing to hair conditioning. Below are several ways you can introduce argan oil into your routine.

Moisturizer

One of argan oil’s top benefits is its natural moisturizing property. The oil absorbs well into the skin, so it doesn’t feel as heavy as something like vitamin E oil might. You can simply use this oil after your normal cleanser. Rub a drop or two into your skin like you would any lotion. A small amount of this oil goes a long way.

Exfoliation

Like most oils and their moisturizing properties, argan oil makes a great addition to exfoliation regimens. Just add several drops of argan oil to a palmful of brown sugar. Rub the area that needs exfoliating for a couple of minutes. That will rid the area of dead skin, promote new cell growth and moisturize all in one punch. It’s especially helpful for callused, dry feet.

Toner

Argan oil may not work as a toner itself, but its skin-nourishing and moisturizing benefits make it a great additive to your favorite toner. You can also keep it natural by adding a few drops of argan oil to a witch hazel toner or some home-brewed rosewater toner (just steep one part petals to one part hot water until the mixture is cool).

Breakouts & Abrasions

In addition to moisturizing, argan oil can reduce the oiliness of skin, preventing acne. It reduces the nasty part of slick skin and leaves skin supple and moist. It also works as an anti-inflammatory agent for acne. Use the oil as a topical application to breakouts, applying it on the troubled areas.

You can also apply the oil directly to abrasions like razor burn or bumps. That will reduce the inflammation and swelling, and soothe the pain.

Hair Conditioner

Rather than the usual deep conditioning treatments common with other oils, argan oil works well as a leave-in conditioner. It adds moisture to hair and takes care of frizz and fly-aways. Simply add a drop to your hands, rub your hands together and run your hands through freshly washed hair. Repeat until you see the desired results, as longer and thicker hair may require more of the oil.

Nail Treatment

Have a problem with hangnails? On clean nails, rub a small drop of argan oil along the cuticle and nail bed. Leave for a minute and rinse if any slickness is left, as it may not soak in as well around the nail. Don’t worry, the oil will still moisturize the area and cut back on hangnails.

Stretch Marks

Argan oil will also help with skin’s elasticity. Simply rub a few drops on the problem areas like you would a lotion and let it sink in. You can also add a few drops of the oil to cocoa or shea butter for added moisturizing benefits.