5 Best Argan Oil Benefits for Skin
Discover all the benefits of argan oil for skin and the best products featuring this hydrating oil.
With so many skincare oils to choose from these days, how do you even decide where to begin? Argan oil has long been used for its skin and hair care benefits. What makes it unique is that it is intensely hydrating yet non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores or trigger acne breakouts.
Ahead, we show you the top five argan oil benefits for skin and the best products featuring this nourishing oil.
Find Argan Oil in...
What is Argan Oil?
Argan oil is a plant oil made from the kernels that grow on the argan tree (Argania spinosa) which is native to Morocco. Traditionally, the extraction involves a cold-pressed process. It’s most often sold as a pure oil, which can be applied topically, but it can also be found in soaps, serums, shampoos, and hair masks. Argan oil even comes in supplement form to provide several health benefits.
In skincare, argan oil is known for being a powerful hydrator. Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, argan oil is especially good for dry skin. That being said, it offers a myriad of skin benefits and is suitable for all skin types.
Benefits of Argan Oil for Skin
So, what does argan oil do for skin? Many things! Whether you’ve got dry skin, sensitive skin, or acne-prone skin, everyone can reap these argan oil benefits.
1. Moisturizes Skin
Argan oil deeply moisturizes and hydrates the skin, making it the go-to ingredient for dry skin. Packed with vitamin E and essential fatty acids, argan oil helps to seal in moisture and prevent water loss, keeping skin well-hydrated for hours.
Even though it’s commonly recommended for people dealing with dryness, all skin types can benefit from moisturizing with argan oil. Even oily skin and acne-prone skin types—since argan oil is lightweight, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic. Unlike many face oils, argan oil won’t clog pores or lead to breakouts.
2. Prevents Signs of Aging
Rich in antioxidants, using argan oil for skin offers anti-aging effects. One study found that a combination of both oral and topical argan oil use led to a significant increase in skin’s elasticity, making it a great anti-aging treatment.
Daily use of argan oil can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while increasing skin’s firmness, giving the skin a smoother, firmer look and feel. That’s why you’ll find it in serums and creams as well as body lotions that target signs of aging both on the face and body.
3. Protects Against Environmental Damage
For centuries, Moroccan women have used argan oil to protect their skin from sun damage and maintain healthy skin. According to a 2013 study, the antioxidants in argan oil protect skin against free radical damage caused by the sun, which prevented hyperpigmentation and sunburn as a result. It may even protect against the development of skin cancer with long-term consistent use.
Argan oil is chock full of antioxidants like polyphenols and vitamin E that help protect against environmental damage. However, you’ll still need to wear sunscreen every day for maximum protection against harmful UV rays.
4. Treats Certain Skin Conditions
Thanks to its high content of fatty acids like oleic acid and linoleic acid, argan oil boasts powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe red, irritated skin. Its healing benefits can also provide relief for people dealing with skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.
For best results, dermatologists recommend applying pure argan oil directly to affected areas of skin. Rosacea may be best treated with oral argan oil supplements.
5. Alleviates Acne
Most acne is caused by the buildup of sebum which leads to clogged pores and ultimately breakouts. Not only is argan oil non-comedogenic, but it also has anti-sebum effects. In other words, it balances sebum on the skin to prevent excess oil and clogging, in turn preventing acne.
What’s more, its anti-inflammatory properties help to ease red, inflamed breakouts, leaving your skin clear, soothed, and fresh.
Best Argan Oil Skincare Products
Now you’ve discovered what argan oil can do for your skin, here are the best skincare products that contain this natural oil. You’re going to love these delicious skincare treats.
Perfect for getting an instant sunkissed glow. This luxurious, sultry-scented oil leaves skin visibly brighter, smoother, and shimmery from the very first use. Enriched with argan oil, vitamin C, and ceramides, it targets dryness, dullness, and dark spots while leaving skin golden and glowing.
An ultra-soothing serum that’s ideal for cooling your skin down after a shaving session. It’ll leave you immediately softer and smelling like coconut paradise while actively fighting razor burn and ingrown hairs. Formulated with a hydrating, soothing blend of argan oil, coconut milk, and vitamin E.
For a stunning rosy shimmer and a floral scent that lasts all day, apply a few drops of this dazzling body oil. Besides its instant radiance boost, Birthday Sex hydrates and visibly firms the skin with its premium blend of peptides, argan oil, and niacinamide.
Try the award-winning shave cream that’s too good to resist! Coco Cloud Shave Butter is a rich, buttery, and extra protective version of your regular shave cream. Besides being utterly decadent, this shave butter protects against cuts, razor burn, and bumps while ensuring a silky, ultra-close glide for the best shave of your life. Formulated with a skin-loving blend of organic argan oil, coconut milk, and white tea.
Get soft and dewy with this dreamy whipped body moisturizer. It feels like pure luxury and leaves you instantly smooth and glowing. Packed full of nature’s finest ingredients like argan oil, white tea, vanilla, and shea butter, your skin will look as good as it feels and smells.
How to Use Argan Oil for Skin
When using argan oil, start with a clean, dry face. Warm 2-3 drops of pure, cold-pressed argan oil between your fingertips and gently massage it onto your skin using upward, circular motions. You can even mix it with your favorite cream for an added hydration boost.
Alternatively, choose a product that contains argan oil, like a serum, cream, or lotion. You’ll find that these products offer additional benefits because they contain argan oil and other active ingredients that address various skin concerns.
Side Effects of Argan Oil for Skin
Argan oil doesn’t typically have any side effects. For most skin types, it is very well tolerated and shouldn’t cause any irritation. That being said, if you do have a skin condition like seborrheic dermatitis, it’s worth speaking to your dermatologist before trying a new product, as it can be exacerbated by topical oils.
Is Argan Oil Good for the Face?
Yes, using argan oil for skin offers a number of benefits. Argan oil is packed with vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, making it a fantastic multitasker for your face. It hydrates, soothes irritation, and even helps improve skin elasticity.
For oily or acne-prone skin, argan oil is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and won’t clog your pores. It contains linoleic acid, which can actually help regulate sebum production. You’ll increase your skin moisture without winding up with breakouts.
Is Argan Oil Good for Aging Skin?
Argan oil can be a game-changer for aging skin. Its high concentration of antioxidants and vitamin E makes it a natural warrior against free radicals, the pesky culprits behind find lines, wrinkles, and sun spots.
What’s more, argan oil boosts your skin’s elasticity and moisture levels, keeping your complexion plump, firm, and glowing. Plus, it’s known for its ability to reduce the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation over time.
Is Argan Oil Good for Skin?
Argan oil is an excellent, universal ingredient that belongs in your skincare routine. Using argan oil for skin offers a number of benefits. From moisturizing dry, itchy skin to preventing signs of aging and treating acne, there’s little argan oil can’t do. In addition to the benefits of argan oil listed above, it can also help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, strengthen the skin barrier, soften cuticles, and promote hair growth.
If you’re looking for daily hydration with added perks and without worrying about clogging your pores, argan oil is your best choice.
