Argan Oil - Organic Argan Oil History and Uses
History of Argan Oil
Argan Oil, also known as “Liquid Gold”, has been around for 3,000 years and is used for its amazing beauty and anti aging benefits. You can use it topically, practically everywhere: your face, fingernails, feet and hair. It contains high levels of Vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids, both anti inflammatory, making it extremely beneficial in fighting aging lines on your face, deeply moisturizing your skin, and reparative/protective for your hair.
The process of obtaining the seeds that contain Argan Oil is long and difficult. Argan trees (Argania spinosa), are native to Southwest Morocco and are very resistant to harsh, semi desert climates. These trees manage to live up to 250 years and it takes at least 50 years for it to reach fruit maturity. The small seeds, which contain this precious oil, are then hand picked and packaged, in many cases by cooperatives of Moroccan Berber women.
How to Choose a quality Argan Oil
I personally use Argan Oil almost daily and can't live without it. An important tip for new-comers is to stay away from products that "contain argan oil", since they rarely contain enough of the ingredient to actually make a significant difference. Try your best get your hands on high quality Extra Virgin Argan Oil (EVAO), which should come in a dark brown glass bottle. This ensures that no sun rays reach your oil, keeping its integrity intact. Also, as with all products, always check the ingredient label. If it doesn't say 100% Organic Argan Oil, then you're purchasing a low quality oil. Don't let those shampoos and hair serums in the drugstore fool you. Get the 100% and you'll never look back, believe me. As an added conscious consumer tip, I recommend buying organic, non animal tested and Fair Trade; the world will thank you.
For Face, Body, and Hair
Organic Argan Oil is essential in my everyday beauty routine. I add it to my shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer and face cream. About once a week, I apply it in its pure form on my face, hands, legs and feet to get that extra boost of moisture. It doesn't matter if you have oily skin, Argan Oil will leave your skin nourished, just apply it before bed to let it soak as you sleep, then wash off in the morning. If you have a dry scalp, apply it on your scalp with your fingertips before bed as well, and wash off in the morning to see the difference. I've even heard of Argan Oil helping people with eczema and psoriasis, saying that it helps relieve their itchiness and outbreaks.
For Hair
The most hailed use of Argan Oil is, of course, its benefits on your hair. I like to alternate between applying it on dry and damp hair. To ensure your hair stays moisturized and shiny, apply it right after you wash your hair for a deep treatment. I do this once a week and my hair stylist is always impressed that my ends and scalp are always so healthy. If you have frizzy and unruly hair, twice a week of deep treatment would be ideal. For dry application or everyday use, style your hair as usual with your blower or flat iron, then add a few drops when you're done to have beautiful shine and serious frizz control. I just can't get enough of this liquid gold!