13 Everyday Uses for Argan Oil
Argan oil is one of those products everyone seems to be buzzing about, and for good reason! This amazing plant-based oil has many healthful uses. Here are 13 of the top ways argan oil can benefit you:
There are many uses for argan oil. Before we discuss them individually, let's start with the product itself. You can purchase either 100% pure argan oil (and just a drop or two will go a long way), or you can buy products that are infused with argan oil. For example, Swanson offers argan oil hand lotion, leave-in conditioner spray and a moisturizing night cream that includes argan oil too. For the purposes of this list though, we’re referring to ways to use pure argan oil.
1Add a few drops of argan oil to your facial moisturizer, foundation or BB cream for an extra glow and added hydration.
2Apply argan oil to your hands for a nail conditioner and cuticle moisturizer.
3Apply argan oil directly to your face and body as a natural moisturizer.
4Add a few drops of argan oil to a rosewater mist for a DIY toner. Apply some to a cotton ball and use to cleanse and moisturize before bed.
5Apply argan to hands (or feet!) for a great winter-weather moisturizer.
6Work argan oil into hair overnight to calm dry, frizzy, split tresses and wash away in the morning. Use a lot as a night treatment or just smooth a couple drops on your ends to hydrate.
7Smooth a drop of argan oil over hair after styling to tame flyaways or static.
8Mix argan oil with some brown sugar for a DIY exfoliator to use on your face, body or feet. Also great to make and give as gifts!
9Smooth some drops of argan oil on your legs after shaving to help razor burn.
10Apply argan oil to lips to moisturize and treat dry, cracked lips. This is also great to do at night!
11Put a few drops of argan oil right into your bath water.
12Use argan oil as a massage oil in place of greasy oils or other lotions.
13Use argan oil as a facial serum or to “wash” before bed with a cotton pad and wake up to super soft skin.
What is Argan Oil?
Argan oil is truly a gem in terms of beauty oils. The oil itself is pressed from the nut inside the fruit of the argan tree, which is native to the argan forest of Morocco.1
Argan trees are protected by UNESCO and many cooperatives within Morocco share profits from the oil with local populations to help support communities and keep the industry sustainable.2 Some people consume argan oil, and while some oils are made specifically for culinary uses,1 we'll be focusing on argan oil for its beautifying properties.
Benefits of Using Argan Oil
Pure argan oil is rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, protein and vitamins A and E. These natural ingredients are what make it so powerful and popular. Argan oil is a great all-natural moisturizer, and is also said to repair imperfections, soothe dry, flaky skin and treat various skin conditions.3
Inventive Ways to Use Argan Oil
DIY Argan Oil Face Mask
Mix together one tablespoon of lemon juice, three teaspoons of Greek-style yogurt, one tablespoon of honey and three drops of argan oil in a bowl. Apply on a clean, dry face and leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.
DIY Argan Oil Shampoo
Mix together one tablespoon argan oil with your favorite castile soap (and also 1/4 cup distilled water if you use grated castile soap) and any desired essential oils. Shake, then shampoo as usual.
DIY Coconut Lime Sugar Hand Scrub
Quickly mix 1/2 cup coconut oil, 10 drops lime essential oil and 10 drops pure argan oil to a whipped consistency. Add 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut and mix again. Slowly mix in 1/2 cup sugar, then gently fold in one teaspoon fresh lime zest. Keep cool in a sealed jar.
Argan oil has been used for centuries in many different ways. Feel free to experiment for yourself to see which uses best suit you!
Always serving our customers,
Your friends at Swanson
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources
1. Argan Oil. Wikipedia. Read source
2. Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve. UNESCO. Read source
3. Argan Oil for Skin Health. HealthLine. Read source