Argan oil – what is it, what are its benefits and how do you use it? These are the questions we answer in this article. You are on the PANAKEIA blog. One of our star ingredients is argan oil, often called "liquid gold" for its many benefits and its versatile use in skin and hair care. In this text we look into the world of argan oil, explain its place in natural cosmetics and guide you through the finest natural cosmetic products that contain it.
How argan oil is made
Argan oil comes from the kernels of the argan tree (Argania spinosa) in Morocco. This precious oil has been made for centuries by indigenous Berber women. The process involves drying the fruit, separating the pulp, cracking the nut to get to the kernels and finally cold-pressing the kernels to extract the oil. This process makes sure the oil keeps its rich nutrients, which are truly valuable in natural cosmetics.
The nutritional profile of argan oil
Argan oil is high in nutrients such as:
- Vitamin E: this vitamin has excellent antioxidant qualities and helps the skin protect itself from free-radical damage. It also helps the skin stay beautifully hydrated.
- Omega fatty acids: argan oil contains omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, which help the skin maintain its barrier function and calm inflammation.
- Polyphenols: they have a soothing and antioxidant function in the skin, supporting its overall health.
- Squalane: as a natural moisturiser, it helps keep the skin well hydrated and supple.
The benefits of argan oil in natural cosmetics
Argan oil has shown itself to be a wonderfully versatile and beneficial ingredient in natural cosmetics thanks to its unique composition. Here are some of its key benefits:
Argan oil hydrates and nourishes the skin
Argan oil is an excellent moisturiser for all skin types. Its generous amount of omega fatty acids and vitamin E helps hydrate and nourish the skin, leaving it soft and smooth, yet without clogged pores.
Argan oil has anti-ageing qualities
The antioxidants found in argan oil are wonderful at softening fine lines and wrinkles by supporting collagen production and easing oxidative stress in the skin.
The oil is a friend to blemish-prone skin
Thanks to its soothing and antimicrobial qualities, argan oil can soften the look of blemishes. It also helps regulate sebum production, so the skin does not become overly oily and prone to breakouts.
Argan oil is a friend to your hair
Argan oil is good not only to the skin but also to the hair. It cares for damaged hair, reduces split ends and brings shine and smoothness. Regular use of argan oil improves the health of the hair and refreshes its appearance.
This oil soothes and calms the skin
Thanks to its soothing qualities, argan oil calms skin that feels troubled, such as skin prone to eczema and psoriasis. It helps reduce redness, itching and inflammation, and supports the skin's natural recovery.
Natural cosmetics containing argan oil
At PANAKEIA we make use of the benefits of argan oil in various natural cosmetic products of ours. It is found in products for a whole range of skin and hair needs. Some of our best-selling products with argan oil are:
Pure organic argan oil
100% pure organic argan oil: it can be used as a moisturiser, a hair conditioner, a cuticle oil or anything else; it is also lovely for softening dry, cracked heels. Just a few drops and you will feel the magic of this remarkable oil.
Night facial oil serum with argan oil
The night facial serum with argan oil, retinol and other active substances offers the fullest care for your skin while you sleep. It was created to hydrate and restore the skin. Wake up each morning with radiant, youthful-looking skin.
Stimulating hair growth serum with argan oil
Our stimulating hair serum with argan oil is the perfect touch to support hair growth and bring immediate shine. It helps strengthen the hair and leaves it silky smooth. For the loveliest results we suggest using it regularly.
How to use pure argan oil
Pure argan oil is wonderfully versatile and can be used in several ways. Here are a few tips on how to weave it into your beauty routine:
- As a facial moisturiser: after cleansing and toning, apply a few drops of pure argan oil to the face and neck. Massage gently until it is absorbed.
- Apply a few drops of argan oil to the ends of your hair to prevent split ends and to smooth and brighten your hair. For deep, intensive care, apply a suitable amount to the hair, cover it with a shower cap and leave it on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing.
- As a body oil: apply pure argan oil to damp skin after a shower to hydrate the whole body. It locks in moisture and keeps your skin beautifully hydrated.
- As a cuticle oil: keep your cuticles healthy and soft by massaging them with argan oil.
Interesting facts about argan oil
And at the end, as tradition has it, a few curiosities. We have gathered a handful of facts about argan oil that might interest you:
- Argan trees can live up to 200 years!
- In Morocco the argan tree is called the "tree of life" for its many uses and benefits.
- Moroccan goats love to climb argan trees and feed on their fruit. You may have seen photos of goats in trees and thought they were a montage. We can assure you that it is real.
- Depending on the type of process, at least 1.2kg of argan is needed to obtain one litre of oil.
- Argan oil is an irreplaceable ingredient in Moroccan cuisine, for example in Amlou, a wonderful dip made of almonds, honey and argan oil.