Reap the Many Benefits of Argan Oil: How to Use Argan Oil on the Face and Why to Add This Oil to Your Beauty Regime Today (2020)

Reap the Many Benefits of Argan Oil: How to Use Argan Oil on the Face and Why to Add This Oil to Your Beauty Regime Today (2020)

The use of argan oil goes back several millennia in Morocco where it originally grew. This precious oil found its way into everything from food to beauty treatments, and with good reason. Light in texture and easily absorbed by the skin, here we explain everything you need to know about how to use argan oil on the face. Once you've tried it, beauty treatments using oil will never be the same again.

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What is Argan Oil?

Argan oil otherwise rightfully called liquid gold is one of the hottest products currently ruling the skincare industry. Originating in Morocco, the oil is harvested from the argan tree particularly from the kernels of the argan fruit. Moroccans have been using the oil for about 3500 years in both cosmetics and cooking.

When it comes to argan oil, it definitely pulls its weight in your skincare routine. It is so light that it penetrates and moisturizes the skin naturally. It can be used on all skin types, even sensitive skin. Argan oil is not just used as a facial oil but your hair loves it too.

Benefits of Argan Oil

Argan oil is a skincare staple and for the rightful reasons. It is rich in vitamin E and hydrates the skin from within. Apply the oil on damp skin and it has the ability to lock in the moisture. When used regularly it yields a soft and supple skin. Being high in antioxidants, it can neutralize free radicals and improve skin texture.

Argan oil is also a powerhouse for tocopherols which along with omega fatty acids diminishes wrinkles, reduces acne, lessens the appearance of marks, and gives a youthful glow to the skin. The lightweight texture of the oil lends itself to be used as a serum for shiny hair. It penetrates the cuticles and revitalizes without weighing it down.

How to Use Argan Oil on the Face

Due to its high nutrient content, argan oil is used on various skin and hair care products. But you can also use the oil on its own regardless of the skin type.

As a Moisturizer

You can use argan oil as a part of your skincare routine replacing your moisturizer. It is non-comedogenic and can be liberally used on the skin. Pour a few drops on your palms and gently massage it onto your skin. Due to the oil being lightweight it sinks in, leaving a glowing skin. Dry and very dry skin can layer the oil if your skin drinks it all up. Use it twice or thrice a day for better results. In case there’s an oily sheen, you can blot it with a blotting paper or a towel.

In Face Packs

For a more intense application use argan oil in a face mask along with honey, oatmeal and lemon juice. While honey hydrates and moisturizes your skin, oatmeal soothes and is also mildly exfoliating. Lemon with its high vitamin C content gives your skin a glowing and youthful look.

  • Combine 2 tablespoons of oatmeal, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 tablespoon argan oil and a few drops of lemon juice in a bowl.
  • Apply on slightly damp skin and let it sit for 15 minutes.
  • Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.

As a Cleanser

What do you remember when it comes to cleansing? Foaming and a squeaky clean feeling? How about we skip all that and go natural with oil cleansing? Oil cleansing with argan oil not only cleanses your skin or dirt and grime, but it also preserves the natural oils on your skin.

  • Apply a wet warm washcloth to your face. Press on the contours of your skin to steam and open the pores.
  • Add a few drops of argan oil to your palms and massage it all over your face for about a minute.
  • Wet the washcloth in warm water again and wring it out. Press it and steam your face for at least 30 seconds.
  • Remove the oil with long, gentle strokes of the washcloth.

Best Cold Pressed Argan Oils Available Online

The efficiency of argan oil depends on the product. Coldpressed argan oil works best since the process doesn't remove the nutrients from the oil. Here are a few products that are cold-pressed and work the best on all skin types.

Juicy Chemistry Cold Pressed Argan Carrier Oil

Freshly made and certified organic, the Juicy Chemistry Cold Pressed Argan Carrier Oil is preservative-free, cruelty-free and 100% natural. Made using the cold-pressed process the resultant oil is rich in nutrients. The oil can be used on both skin and hair. Since it is a carrier oil, you can also add a few drops of your favourite essential oil for added benefits. Costing you Rs.580 for 30ml, it is available to buy at Juicy Chemistry.

Nykaa Naturals Argan Facial Oil

From the brand Nykaa comes the Nykaa Naturals Argan Facial Oil, a 100% pure, cold-pressed, and organic argan oil. The superfood can be used on its own, or with a few drops of essential oil to make it all the more powerful. The production of the oil doesn't require any animal products, hence suitable for vegetarians. Initially greasy, the oil is absorbed fast into the skin. Priced at Rs. 800 for 30 ml, it is available to buy from Nykaa.

StBotanica Organic Pure Argan Oil

The Pure, Cold-Pressed, and Organic Argan Oil by StBotanica is USDA certified for purity. Imported from Morocco, the oil can be used on skin, hair, and as a cuticle strengthener too. The oil is 100% pure, vegan, and organic. With no added chemicals and additives, the argan oil is not tested on animals. It is available to buy from Amazon India for Rs. 899 (50ml).

Soulflower Pure & Natural Cold Pressed Argan Oil

From the brand Soulflower known for its organic products is the Soulflower Pure & Natural Cold Pressed Argan Oil. The oil is therapeutic grade and is made via holistic Indian formulation. Hence, it is free from parabens, SLS, mineral oils, and fragrance. It is also cruelty-free and 100% vegan. The oil is undiluted and made by the cold-pressed process. Buy it from Myntra for Rs. 800 (30ml).

Why the High Price?

Argan oil is a potent oil derived from the argan tree that solely grows in Morocco. The process is labour intensive and that equates to the price. It starts with removing the outer flesh to reveal the nut. And then cracking the nut to extract the oil. The above-mentioned process has to be done by hand since for some reason machines have failed.

Writer
Sunandha Wilis
After spending 12 years in the hectic corporate world, Sunandha quit the industry to follow her passion for writing. She enjoys writing on a variety of subjects including travel, health, beauty, fashion and technology. Apart from writing she also dons the hat of an editor from time to time. Her time off is spent listening to music and wrestling with her boys.
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Do a trial run to assess suitability

As natural and beneficial as any ingredient may be, that it will suit your skin in not a given. And when it is an expensive ingredient, you want to be doubly sure it will benefit you before diving in head first. Conditions like changing weather, your own skin and overall health at the time and diet play a big role in how your skin reacts to substances, keep this in mind. If it does enhance your skin that's great, and if it does not then don't lose heart: there are plenty of local, natural ingredients that can give you the desired effects.