Argan Oil for Skin & Face Health

An In-Depth Look at Argan Oil and Its Benefits

What is Argan Oil?

Argan oil, derived from the kernels of the argan tree indigenous to Morocco, is a versatile oil often sold in its purest form. This oil can be applied directly to the skin or ingested to gain various health benefits. It's available in supplement capsules for oral intake and is commonly integrated into numerous cosmetic products such as shampoos, soaps, and conditioners.

Traditionally, argan oil has been used both topically and orally to enhance the health of skin, argan oil for hair, and nails. It is rich in beneficial properties and vitamins that contribute significantly to skin health. 

 

Skin Benefits of Argan Oil

1. Sun Protection

Moroccan women have long utilized argan oil to shield their skin from sun damage, a practice supported by a 2013 study. The antioxidant activity in argan oil helps protect the skin from free radical damage caused by the sun, preventing burns and hyperpigmentation. Over time, this protection may reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma. Argan oil can be applied topically or taken orally to enjoy these benefits.

2. Skin Moisturization

Argan oil is widely recognized as a moisturizer, which is why it's often found in lotions, soaps, and hair conditioners. Its high vitamin E content, a fat-soluble antioxidant, helps improve water retention in the skin, making it an effective moisturizer when applied topically or ingested as a daily supplement.

3. Treatment of Skin Conditions

With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, argan oil can alleviate symptoms of various inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and rosacea. For psoriasis, applying pure argan oil directly to the affected areas yields the best results. Rosacea symptoms may be better managed by taking oral supplements.

4. Acne Treatment

Hormonal acne, caused by excess sebum production due to hormonal changes, can be effectively managed with argan oil. Its anti-sebum effects regulate sebum production, helping to treat different types of acne and promoting a smoother complexion. Argan oil or face creams containing it should be applied to the skin at least twice daily, with noticeable results typically appearing after four weeks.

5. Healing Skin Infections

Traditionally, argan oil has been used to treat skin infections due to its antibacterial and fungicidal properties, making it effective in treating and preventing bacterial and fungal infections. Applying it to the affected area at least twice daily can provide relief.

6. Enhanced Wound Healing

The combination of antioxidants and vitamin E in argan oil can accelerate wound healing. Regularly taking argan oil supplements can help wounds and cuts heal faster.

7. Relief for Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, characterized by itchy, red skin, can be soothed by argan oil. The vitamin E and natural inflammatory properties of the oil help reduce symptoms when applied to the affected areas. Research has shown significant symptom reduction in patients treated with vitamin E, abundant in argan oil.

8. Anti-Aging Properties

Long used as an anti-aging treatment, argan oil has now been supported by research involving postmenopausal participants. The study revealed that a combination of oral and topical argan oil significantly increased skin elasticity, providing an effective anti-aging solution. Benefits can be obtained by applying the oil directly to the skin, taking supplements, or both.

9. Reduction of Skin Oiliness

For those with naturally oily skin, argan oil can help reduce the oiliness by decreasing sebum production. A study found that twice-daily application of an argan oil-containing cream reduced significant sebum activity and oiliness within four weeks.

10. Prevention and Reduction of Stretch Marks

Stretch marks, common during pregnancy but affecting many people, can be prevented and treated with argan oil. A 2016 study found that a water-in-oil cream with argan oil improved skin elasticity, helping to prevent and reduce stretch marks. Applying the oil to the affected area at least twice daily from the early stages can yield the best results.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

While argan oil is generally safe for most people, some may experience minor side effects. Topically, it can cause skin irritation, leading to rashes or acne, particularly in individuals with tree nut allergies, as argan oil, derived from a stone fruit, might trigger similar reactions. Testing the oil on a small skin patch before widespread use can prevent adverse reactions.

When taken orally, argan oil might cause digestive issues such as nausea, gas, or diarrhea. It can also lead to loss of appetite, bloating, and, in some cases, skin reactions like rashes or acne breakouts. Rarely, severe side effects such as confusion, insomnia, general malaise, overexcitement, depression, and agitation may occur. If these symptoms appear, discontinue use immediately.

The Takeaway

Whether applied topically or ingested, argan oil offers numerous health benefits and is safe for most people. Its healing properties and vitamins make it a powerful addition to skincare routines. However, if after several weeks there is no improvement in the condition being treated, consulting a healthcare professional for alternative treatments, including prescription medications, may be necessary.

Also read argan oil benefits for hair

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As Seen In

Discover Key Ingredients

  • argan oil

    Can help moisturize hair, keeping the scalp healthy and protecting hair from damage. It also may help prevent hair loss for fuller hair

  • coconut oil

    Derived from coconuts, and milder than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, while still producing a sudsy lather. It is safe for colored hair and helps the transition period from liquid to bar seamless.

  • sodium coco sulfate

    Derived from coconuts, and milder than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, while still producing a sudsy lather. It is safe for colored hair and helps the transition period from liquid to bar seamless.

  • behentrimonium methosulfate

    Made from rapeseed oil, it is non-irritating and used to soften the hair and reduce static and frizz without causing build-up.

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Madan C.

I never tried shampoo bars until I knew about the Parrotfish brand. This is clean and has natural elements, may be it is worthful to pay for natural ingredients shampoo. I wish the price would be comparable to the quantity they offer.

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Brooke K.

I have been wanting to switch to bar shampoo to lower my plastic use and love this option. It works just as well maybe better thank liquid shampoo.

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Taren H.

I’ve used other shampoo bars, and this is the most expensive by far. I did like the scent. The peppermint was tingly and refreshing, and it left my hair feeling good.

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matt B.

I found this Nourishing Shampoo Bar at our local HEB Central Market. I wasn't sure what to expect but was super impressed after I tried this shampoo bar. I love the mint scent and that it was effective at cleansing my hair and scalp. I loved the soft feeling afterward. I plan to buy the conditioner bar the next time that I run to HEB Central Market.

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Laura W.

Tried the argan one and really liked it. So easy to use and lasts a while. Left my hair feeling clean but moisturized. Very expensive so would be an occasional purchase.