Argania spinosa, better known as argan, is a tree native to Morocco in North Africa. Many of these trees live as long as 200 years, producing thorns, flowers, fruit, and nuts. Moroccans have traditionally extracted argan oil from the kernels of the argania spinosa tree for both culinary and skincare applications. The benefits of argan oil on the skin are well documented. This potent ingredient has been used both in traditional medicine and modern skin care regimens to produce highly effective and natural skincare products.
Today, we will review some benefits of argan oil, how to best incorporate argan oil into your beauty routine, and why argan oil is a great fit for all skin types..
Argan Oil as a Natural Moisturizer
Above all else, argan oil is renowned for its moisturizing properties. Argan oil has a naturally high concentration of fatty acids and vitamin E, both of which absorb easily into skin. It is also a relatively light oil. This lightness prevents the oil from creating that “greasy” feeling which can linger with the usage of some other oils.
Argan oil is appropriate for usage as a moisturizer on all areas of the body. It is also non-comedogenic by nature, scoring a zero (0) on the comedogenic scale. This essentially means that argan oil will not clog up your pores.
One caveat to keep in mind is that all oils should be applied to the skin in moderation. Argan oil is highly effective and efficient. Only a small amount is needed to reap the full benefits. Often, facial products will use argan oil as an active ingredient, but blend it with other natural components to create a more well-rounded oil.
Is Argan Oil a Safe Choice?
One of the primary benefits of using argan oil is its safety. Not only is this naturally occurring oil safe to use on the skin, but it is also safe to use around the eyes and mouth. Consider that argan oil is used in culinary applications and is perfectly safe to eat, and you will see that it is an ideal choice for those seeking a safe facial oil.
It is important to understand that all of the above safe usages only apply to pure argan oil. Products containing argan oil still may be unsafe to use around the eyes and/or mouth due to other potentially harmful ingredients.
How to Use Argan Oil as a Skincare Treatment
There are several topical uses for argan oil which can benefit skin and overall health. The best ways to use argan oil as a skincare product include:
- Apply in the morning to start your day: Natural oils are not actually “moisturizing,” but instead offer a thin layer of protection for your skin. Apply a small amount of argan oil directly to the skin before starting your day to moisturize and protect.
- Apply before bed: Marie Claire suggests applying argan oil before bedtime after washing your face. This can be incorporated into your existing beauty regimen.
- Argan oil as an ingredient in beauty products: Pure argan oil is fantastic, but some products have harnessed the benefits of argan oil and blended them together with other natural ingredients for even greater effect
Should I be Using Argan Oil if I Have Acne?
Acne comes in many forms — from fully fledged breakouts to a few pimples here and there. Still, the concern remains the same: Should I be putting oil on my face if I have a problem with acne? The idea that applying oil will exacerbate acne is false. Argan oil is a naturally light oil with skin-healthy components such as vitamin E.
It is important to use any oil in small doses. An excess of any oil, including argan oil, can certainly contribute to developing new or exacerbating existing acne. Applying argan oil to the face should be done with small quantities, evenly distributed, and applied onto a well-washed face.
Since argan oil is so powerful, this is yet another reason to consider using a product with a lower concentration of the oil. This will ensure that your skin is receiving a healthy amount of argan oil — allowing the benefits to take root without risk of any undue harm to the skin.
Dr. Wang Herbal Skincare Argan Oil Products
At Dr. Wang Herbal Skincare, we use our extensive experience to offer affordable, high-end skincare products for spa and at-home use. For over 20 years, the father-son team of Steven Wang, MD and Gui Wang, LAc have been working together to develop holistic solutions to common skin health issues. We believe in fusing ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with modern Western medicine to offer the best of both worlds.
Learn more about our products and our story to discover how we can help you reach your skincare goals today.