Argan oil is argan plant oil extracted especially for cosmetic use. The argan tree is found in Algeria and Morocco. Being edible, people in Morocco use this plant oil in culinary art. Along with culinary use it is also used in cosmetic and beauty products. How Is It Obtained?To obtain this oil which is found in the kernel of argan nut is a long and tough task. The fleshy fruit is first dried in open air. After removing the flesh which serves as cattle fodder, the nuts are cracked to get the kernel. Cracking the nut is the toughest of all the tasks. It is time consuming and labor intensive process to get the kernel out of the nut. After cracking the nuts they are prepared for oil extraction. Kernels are roasted to improve the flavor of oil for culinary use; for cosmetic use they are used as such. After grinding the argan kernels, they are squeezed to get the oil. This is how the golden-colored oil is extracted by hand from the kernel of a thorny tree- argan. This natural and pure oil is allowed to rest for weeks for allow the solid suspension to settle down. A small amount of solid suspension that remains in the oil after filtering is natural and does not affect the quality of the oil.The press-cake is rich in protein and it is common practice to use it as cattle feed.
The Cosmetic Use
The argan oil produced from kernel without roasting them has cosmetic values. It is beneficial in skin disease treatment and is also used as skin and hair oil. Nutrient rich composition of this oil-including linoleic acid and vitamin E- makes it perfect for skin. The linoleic acid or omega-6 fatty acid is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The oil is useful for hydrating the skin and fighting the signs of aging. It restores the health of the hair and tame frizz. It is believed to penetrate the skin naturally and thus deep absorption of antioxidants makes sense to protect the skin from sun rays and free radical damage.Argan oil can be applied to the skin, hair and cuticles directly or it can be used in mixed composition with other beauty products. Its use in products ranges from face masks and shampoos to makeup and shaving cream and aftershave products.
Apart from cosmetic use, argan oil offers health benefits also. It has same health benefits as that of olive oil. By providing protection against oxidative damage, it is believed to be effective in prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Skin Logix's argan oil offers the benefits of natural argan oil. It claims to have no synthetic color, fragrance, preservative and harmful toxins. Unlike olive oil, it is not heavy, sticky and sludgy. Helping against the wrinkle, it is refined and natural. The potential this oil holds is mesmerizing but the tough task of breaking the nut to obtain the oil makes it a costly affair. Still, because of its close affinity with skin and advantages, it is worth trying.