Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil

Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil

By Richard Bence
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Argan oil is one of nature's most remarkable skincare ingredients, backed by substantial scientific research. What makes it special is its unique combination of beneficial compounds - primarily oleic acid (45%) and linoleic acid (35%), along with powerful antioxidants including vitamin E (tocopherols), polyphenols, and sterols [1]. This natural oil has been proven to help restore skin barrier function, reduce water loss from the skin, and provide significant anti-aging benefits [2].

For those with dry or sensitive skin (Types 1 and 2), argan oil is particularly beneficial. Its high linoleic acid content helps repair the skin barrier and reduce inflammation, while its moisturizing properties help combat dryness [3]. People with balanced skin (Type 3) often find argan oil provides ideal maintenance care - it's light enough to not feel greasy but effective enough to maintain healthy skin function. Even those with oily or oily-sensitive skin (Types 4 and 5) can benefit, as research shows argan oil is non-comedogenic and may actually help regulate sebum production [4].

The oil's anti-aging properties are particularly noteworthy. Clinical studies have demonstrated improvements in skin elasticity and hydration with regular use [5]. Its antioxidant content helps protect against environmental damage, while its anti-inflammatory properties can help calm irritated skin. For those dealing with scarring or wound healing, research has shown argan oil can promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation [6].

What makes argan oil especially appealing is its versatility and safety profile. Allergic reactions are extremely rare [7], and it can be used either alone or as part of a broader skincare routine. The oil's effectiveness comes from its ability to support your skin's natural functions rather than dramatically changing them - it works with your skin, not against it.

For best results, we use cold-pressed, unrefined argan oil to ensure you're getting the full spectrum of beneficial compounds. The oil can be used morning or night, and while it's effective on its own, it also works well layered with other skincare ingredients. Remember that skincare is personal - while argan oil has proven benefits for all skin types, individual responses can vary, and it may take a few weeks of consistent use to see optimal results.

References

  1. Guillaume D, Charrouf Z. 'Argan oil and other argan products: Use in dermocosmetology'. European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology 2011;113:403-408. DOI: 10.1002/ejlt.201000417

  2. Boucetta KQ, Charrouf Z, Derouiche A, et al. 'Skin hydration in postmenopausal women: argan oil benefit with oral and/or topical use'. Przegląd Menopauzalny 2014;13:280-288. DOI: 10.5114/pm.2014.46470

  3. Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. 'Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils'. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 2018;19:70. DOI: 10.3390/ijms19010070

  4. Manca ML, Matricardi P, Cencetti C, et al. 'Combination of argan oil and phospholipids for the development of an effective liposome-like formulation able to improve skin hydration and allantoin dermal delivery'. International Journal of Pharmaceutics 2016;505:204-211. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2016.04.008

  5. Boucetta KQ, Charrouf Z, Aguenaou H, et al. 'The effect of dietary and/or cosmetic argan oil on postmenopausal skin elasticity'. Clinical Interventions in Aging 2015;10:339-349. DOI: 10.2147/CIA.S71684

  6. Avsar U, Halici Z, Akpinar E, et al. 'The effects of argan oil in second-degree burn wound healing in rats'. Ostomy Wound Management 2016;62:26-34. [No DOI available]

  7. Poljšak N, Kreft S, Kočevar Glavač N. 'Vegetable butters and oils in skin wound healing: Scientific evidence for new opportunities in dermatology'. Phytotherapy Research 2019;33:1-16. DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6524

Additional Supporting References:

  1. Gharby S, Charrouf Z. 'Argan oil: Chemical composition, extraction process, and quality control'. Frontiers in Nutrition 2021;8:804587. DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.804587

  2. El Monfalouti H, Guillaume D, Denhez C, Charrouf Z. 'Therapeutic potential of argan oil - A review'. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology 2010;62:1669-1675. DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.2010.01190.x

  3. Vaughn AR, Clark AK, Sivamani RK, Shi VY. 'Natural oils for skin-barrier repair: Ancient compounds now backed by modern science'. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology 2018;19:103-117. DOI: 10.1007/s40257-017-0301-1

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