Contents
Description
Cosmetic oils, which not only nourish and moisturize the skin, but also prevent the aging process, will help to “look younger” for a decade. Among those who give “eternal youth” is exotic argan oil.
Argan is characterized by a limited production area: unique argan oil is mined only in one country of the world – Morocco. This is due to the extremely narrow natural distribution area of the argan tree, which grows only in the river valley located on the southwestern border of the legendary Sahara.
African argan, which is the main source of oil for Morocco, not only for cosmetic, but also for culinary purposes, is better known there as the iron tree. For the local population, argan is historically the main nutritious oil, an analogue of European olive and any other vegetable fats.
For the extraction of oil, nucleoli are used, which are hidden by several pieces in the hard bones of the fleshy fruits of argan.
History
Moroccan women have used argan oil for centuries in their simple beauty routine, and modern beauty golics appreciated it only a few years ago. The oil, which is called “liquid Moroccan gold”, is considered the most expensive oil on the planet.
The high price is due to the fact that the argan tree (Argania spinosa) grows on several hectares in the southwestern region of Morocco. This tree has been tried many times to cultivate in other countries of the world: the plant takes root, but does not bear fruit. Perhaps that is why, recently, the only argan forest in the world has been taken under protection by UNESCO.
Composition
The composition of argan seed oil has rightfully earned the title of unique: about 80% are unsaturated and high-quality fatty acids, which play an extremely important role for the metabolism and health of the cardiovascular system.
The content of tocopherols in argan is several times higher than in olive oil, and the vitamin composition seems to be created for an effective effect on the skin and hair.
- Linoleic acid 80%
- Tocopherols 10%
- Polyphenols 10%
But the main feature of the oil is considered to be a high content of unique phytosterols, squalene, polyphenols, high molecular weight proteins, natural fungicides and antibiotic analogues, which determine its regenerating and healing properties.
Argan oil color, taste and aroma
Argan oil is quite bright in its external properties. The color ranges from dark yellows and amber to lighter saturated tones of yellow, orange and reddish orange.
Its intensity largely depends on the degree of seed ripening, but does not indicate the quality and characteristics of the oil itself, although a too light color and shades that deviate from the basic palette may indicate falsifications.
The aroma of the oil is unusual, it combines subtle, almost spicy overtones of overtones and a pronounced nutty base, while the intensity of the aroma also ranges from almost imperceptible in cosmetic oils to more intense in culinary oils.
The taste resembles not nut bases, but pumpkin seed oil, but also stands out with nuances of piquant tones and a tangible tangy sillage.
Argan oil benefits
Argan oil for face is a lifeline for aging skin. It is renowned for its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties. The natural composition of argan contains a dozen useful substances that are aimed at solving skin problems.
Thus, vitamin E is responsible for the regeneration of damaged cells. Plant pigments polyphenols act on the upper layer of the dermis, relieve it of pigmentation and uneven color. Organic acids (lilac and vanillic) have an antiseptic effect on various skin inflammations, up to eczema and dermatitis. They also deeply nourish and moisturize the skin.
Thanks to omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, the oil does not leave sticky marks or oily sheen. With regular use, argan normalizes cellular and lipid reserves, which are reduced from the use of chemical cosmetics.
Harm of argan oil
The only limitation is individual intolerance. Before the first use, beauticians recommend an allergy test. Apply a few drops of argan to the back of the elbow and wait 15-20 minutes. If irritation, swelling or redness appears, the oil should not be used.
Argan is also not recommended for young girls with oily skin. The oil will only provoke additional inflammation.
How to choose argan oil
Quality Moroccan argan oil costs money, so you’ll have to fork out. Discount products or promotions are most likely fake.
When choosing argan for the face, be guided by its composition. So that there are no chemical impurities and additives of other oils. A slight sediment is allowed at the bottom.
Pay attention to the expiration date of the product as well as the way it was manufactured. Handmade oil is not suitable for beauty treatments. Take argan made by machine pressing (cold pressing).
Quality argan oil has no pronounced smell and brown color. A good product has a light smell of nuts and herbs and a delicate golden hue.
Check the texture: it should be light. Apply a few drops to your wrist. If a greasy stain remains after a few minutes, the product has been diluted with a chemical solvent.
Storage conditions. After purchasing argan oil, keep it in a glass bottle in the refrigerator.
Argan Oil Applications
Argan oil for the face is used both in pure form and as part of masks, compresses or lotions. The main rule: a few drops of ether is enough for one procedure. For better penetration into the pores, the oil can be slightly warmed.
Before applying, cleanse your face from makeup and steam it with a steam bath. Remember, masks with argan are absorbed for no more than 30 minutes. Then cleanse your face with warm milk or kefir so that no oily sheen remains. Apply additional moisturizer as needed.
Never wash off argan oil with chemical cleansers, as this will reduce the oil’s effect to zero.
Owners of dry skin are recommended to do masks 2 times a week. For women with normal skin type, once is enough. The course of treatment is 10 procedures, then you need to take a month break.
Can be used instead of cream?
You cannot use it as an independent daily cream. Pure argan oil can be used to make warm compresses regularly. The oil is also added to regular creams and homemade masks.
Reviews and recommendations of cosmetologists
Argan oil is one of the few plant oils that can be used as a healing agent. It is applied for psoriasis, burns, skin fungi and all kinds of wounds on the face. But you need to understand that this is not the main treatment, but just an accompanying cosmetic product. It is aimed at tightening scars and cracks. Argan oil relieves irritation and any inflammatory processes well.
How argan oil behaves on the skin
Argan oil is one of the most vivid and quickest protective oils. It relieves irritation very quickly and soothes the skin after and during sunbathing. When applied to the skin, it does not cause a feeling of tightness, oily film or other unpleasant symptoms, but at the same time it has a quick lifting effect and actively smoothes the skin.
This base can be applied to the skin both in pure form and as a component of care products, used in combination with other base and essential oils. Argan is perfect for both special and daily care.
Recipe for a note
For a moisturizing mask with argan oil, you need 23 drops of argan, 12 grams of honey (a teaspoon) and 16 grams of cocoa (a teaspoon).
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly onto the previously cleansed face skin (avoiding the eyes and lips). Soak for 20 minutes, rinse with warm water or mineral water with almond oil.
Result: cell structure is restored, skin tone and color are evened out.
Cooking use of Argan oil
Argan oil is considered one of the most expensive culinary delicacies. It is actively used in traditional Moroccan cuisine and haute cuisine, most often for dressing cold appetizers and salads with the obligatory addition of lemon juice that reveals the taste of oil, which ideally emphasizes the nutty aromas and spicy overflows of a spicy aftertaste.
This oil is not prone to rancidity and decay at high temperatures, so it can be used for hot dishes, including frying.