What are the top 7 uses for argan oil?  Sometimes known as Moroccan liquid gold, argan oil has a multitude of uses inclusive of alleviating and treating dry skin, rashes, and treating acne ridden skin.  Historically, it was used for its curative properties with open wounds and today it is also seen as a dietary supplement.  Is it honestly possible that what appears to be an unassuming tree can truly be so magnificent?

As with most things, it is important to understand the genesis to fully grasp the present. Argan oil hails from Morocco (not be confused with Moroccan oil) and the oil is extracted from the fruit of the tree.  The round fruit has a thick cover that protects a fleshy pulp that has a large nut in the center that houses the much sought after kernels that yield this miraculous Moroccan liquid gold.  Despite many attempts to mechanize the process, due to its properties, most cold pressing and extraction is done by hand. This arduous process takes Berber women between 3 to 4 days to produce a liter of oil. This luxurious oil has incredible properties thus creating a long list of uses but what are the top 7?

1. Body and Face Moisturizer

Argan oil is rich in vitamin E and vitamin A, both of which are crucial in reducing fine lines and encouraging cellular reparation.  During the winter moths our skin is thirsty for relief from the harsh outdoors and the constant change from dry, warm air indoors to cooler ambient air laden with pollutants.  In particular at night, the glistening oil will create a layer of moisture and will not create an oily residue as it is a dry oil.  A word of caution; use argan oil sparingly.  A little goes a long way!  This liquid gold is an opulent and luxurious oil just like a fine truffle to be savored and doled out slowly.

2. Acne treatment

If you are anything like me, you find yourself in your 40’s struggling with pugnacious acne flare ups that should be part of a movie surrounding the trial and tribulations of high school drama.   Argan oil is a magnificent solution for acne prone skin.  Argan oil has antibacterial properties and reduces inflammation due to its high content of linoleic acid.  Despite the temptation of using chemicals to fight acne, remember that argan oil used alone or in combination with other oils such as tea tree or marigold bergamot can create both a solution and a benefit.

3. Manage and protect your locks

I personally have ethnic hair that has moments of utter freedom with curls that can be unruly.  I have found that argan oil, found in our hair and body silk, creates impeccable runway ready, bouncy curls.  Especially during winter I tend to flat iron my hair, but before I even consider the laborious process of blow out and flat iron, I always add a few drops to my scalp and hair. In addition to creating a platform for coiffure perfection, it also fights spilt ends. Need I say more? 

4. Overnight hair treatment

Sometimes we tend to forget about our locks.  Our hair frames our faces.  About once a month (usually on a cozy, scrabble Saturday night) I lather my locks with a hair mask that includes argan oil.  This month I tried a combination of our Organic Cleansing Oil and argan oil and it was magnificent.  Some research even suggests that argan oil can promote hair growth, so I am certain to massage my scalp too!  The properties of the vitamins A & E create a healthy shine and manageability.

5. Boost for any mask treatment. 

Whether doing a mask for your face, your hands or if you are fortunate enough to have an all over body masking/wrapping experience, argan oil contains tocopherols (vitamin E) which has been highlighted for its anti-oxidant effects.  The linoleic acid found in argan oil promotes and encourages levels of sebum production which limits dead skin cells. Adding argan oil to any mask treatment will boost the effects just like a dash of salt adds a glorious touch of flavor to a perfectly ripened avocado.

6. Great for babies and mommies

Argan oil is the perfect emollient for both babies and their moms (aunts, grandmothers, dads, grandfathers, neighbors… etc.).  The gentle non-toxic properties of argan oil can add moisture, help with cradle cap as well as rashes on gentle baby skin.  In addition, it can be used on stretch marks during and after pregnancy.  I have a friend that gave birth to twins and gained a substantial amount of weight and what seemed to be an etch-a-sketch picture of stretch marks during her pregnancy.  Well before the current buzz of argan oil, her Vovo gave her the “old country” suggestion of using argan oil on a daily basis.  I am here to tell you that Vovo, if alive, would have millions of Instagram followers – she was brilliant!

7. Cuticles, lips and feet

Cracked lips, dry feet and painfully parched cuticles benefit greatly from argan oil.  A few drops with cozy socks can create an ideal overnight treatment for your feet.  When pampering my feet, I also like to finish my treatment with our orange peppermint shea butter cream adding another layer of treatment and delight.  Remember to always apply oils before creams for best results!  As for my cuticles, I tend to take care of my hands mostly in traffic, so I rub a few drops on my cuticles while I sit in daily traffic.  It tends to beat any possibility of texting and I feel incredibly efficient during idle time.  As for your lips, massaging a drop of argan oil prior to lathering your lips with your lip balm makes for a perfect pout… NYE is around the corner!

Beyond the abovementioned uses for argan oil, the fair trade with the women in Morocco that produces this Moroccan liquid gold has changed lives.  I encourage you to learn more about argan oil and how the concerted selection of certified organic argan oil for HollyBeth Organic products changes lives and encourages a brighter future.  Stay lovely, stay strong and try one of the 7 uses for argan oil.