Argan Oil Side Effects and Allergy Precautions

What is Argan Oil?

Argan oil is derived from the nuts of Argania spinosa, a native desert tree in Morocco. The fruit of this tree, often referred to as “argan nuts,” fits the definition of tree nuts. 

Why the Hype for Argan Oil is Justified

Argan oil has garnered significant attention in the beauty and skincare industry. But what makes this oil so special, and why does it live up to the hype? 

Rich Nutrient Profile

Argan oil is packed with essential nutrients, including:

  • Vitamins A and E: These vitamins are vital for maintaining healthy skin and hair. Vitamin E, in particular, is a powerful antioxidant that helps combat free radicals and promotes skin repair and rejuvenation.
  • Omega Fatty Acids: Argan oil contains Omega 6, 3, and 9 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. These fatty acids also help to nourish and strengthen hair, reducing breakage and split ends.
  • Antioxidants: The antioxidants present in argan oil protect the skin from environmental damage, such as UV rays and pollution, reducing the signs of aging.

Benefits of Argan Oil

  1. Moisturises the Skin: Argan oil’s high content of fatty acids makes it an excellent moisturiser. It penetrates deeply into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue. This helps to maintain the skin's natural elasticity and softness.
  2. Reduces Wrinkles and Fine Lines: The combination of vitamins A and E, along with antioxidants, helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Regular use of argan oil can improve skin texture and promote a youthful glow.
  3. Controls Skin Oxidation: Argan oil inhibits the process of skin oxidation, where free radicals cause damage by seeking out other free radicals to bond with. The antioxidants in argan oil neutralise these free radicals, preventing further skin damage and promoting a healthier complexion.
  4. Improves Skin Elasticity: By boosting collagen production and enhancing skin elasticity, argan oil helps to firm the skin and reduce sagging. This makes it particularly beneficial for aging skin.
  5. Hydrates and Nourishes Hair: Argan oil is a fantastic hair treatment, providing hydration and nourishment to dry, brittle hair. It helps to repair damaged hair, reduce frizz, and enhance shine. The oil also protects the hair from environmental damage and heat styling.
  6. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Argan oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. This makes it an excellent treatment for conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
  7. Antibacterial Benefits: The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of argan oil make it effective in treating acne and other skin infections. It helps to keep the skin clear and free from blemishes.
  8. Prevents and Reduces Stretch Marks: Rich in vitamin E, argan oil improves skin elasticity, which helps in preventing and treating stretch marks. Its moisturising properties also help to soften the skin and reduce the appearance of existing stretch marks.

Tree Nut Allergies and Argan Oil

However, the oil is typically cold-pressed, preserving allergenic proteins that could trigger allergic reactions. Tree nuts, such as almonds, cashews, and walnuts, are common allergens. While argan nuts are not listed among the priority allergens, it is wise for those with tree nut allergies to avoid argan oil. If you are keen to use argan oil despite your allergy, consult an allergist first. You may need to bring argan oil to your appointment for testing, as it is not a common allergen.

Botanical Oils and Allergic Reactions

Even if you do not have a tree nut allergy, botanical oils, including argan oil, can cause reactions in some individuals. These oils can lead to contact dermatitis, presenting as red, itchy, and scaly skin. This condition may occur after prolonged use of the oil without prior issues.

Acne and Skin Breakouts

Argan oil, like other oils used in hair care products, can cause acne around the scalp, neck, upper back, and chest. This can be particularly problematic if the breakouts appear as acne. The best way to determine if argan oil is the culprit is to stop using it and monitor your skin. For a definitive diagnosis, a dermatologist can perform patch testing to identify the specific ingredient causing the reaction.

Precautions for Using Argan Oil

  • Patch Test: Always conduct a patch test before using argan oil extensively to check for any adverse reactions.
  • Consultation: If you have a tree nut allergy, consult with an allergist before using argan oil.
  • Dermatologist Advice: If you experience skin issues, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
  • Monitor Usage: Discontinue use if you notice any adverse effects and consider avoiding botanical hair care products if you have sensitive skin.

 

Argan oil has numerous benefits, but it is essential to be aware of potential side effects and allergy precautions to use it safely.

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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.

Read Press Coverage

  • "Parrotfish's Argan Shampoo Bar wins the spot for best shampoo bar due to its ability to hydrate and heal several hair types."

  • "Parrotfish's cocoa butter and coconut-based shampoo bars are rich with argan oil or peppermint to cleanse hair and feed it essential minerals to keep locks healthy."

  • "Parrotfish shampoo bars convinced me to ditch my plastic shampoo and conditioner, and I’m never looking back."

Customer Reviews

Based on 83 reviews
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(78)
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M
Mary

argan oil shampoo and conditioner

S
Susan T.
Good product

I purchased the purple shampoo and conditioner bars & am very pleased with the results. It has definitely toned down the yellowing of my gray hair and does not dry my hair out. I will be ordering again for sure.

J
JENNIFER B.

purple shampoo and conditioner

D
Dorothy C.
Great product

I color my hair and have tried many products that deal with toning down the orange, but nothing has worked as well as the purple bars for shampoo and conditioner. My hair has never looked or felt better. I love this product.

S
Sue T.
Purple

I love the shampoo and cream rinse. They leave my hair shiny and softer.