Argan oil may have a number of health benefits for the skin and overall well-being. It has been demonstrated in studies to aid with dry skin, mild burns, and irritation.
Argan oil is a Moroccan product that has been used as a cooking component and condiment for generations. People have, however, long utilised it to treat a variety of ailments. This has motivated scientists to look into the health benefits of argan oil.
Although scientific proof for argan oil’s skin benefits is scarce, a study reveals that argan oil may have anti-inflammatory characteristics that could enhance skin health.
This article goes over some of the evidence that backs up argan oil’s possible health benefits.
What is argan oil?
Argan oil is a naturally occurring oil made from the kernels of the argan tree, which is native to Morocco. People have traditionally used it to treat a variety of skin issues, such as dry skin, sunburn, and atopic dermatitis, the most prevalent kind of eczema.
Argan oil is widely accessible in pharmacies and drugstores as an over-the-counter (OTC) product. It’s available as a standalone product or as a component in shampoos, conditioners, creams, and lotions.
Potential skin health benefits-
The effect of argan oil on a person’s skin is one of its many possible benefits. These are some of them:
Dry Skin: Argan oil may help treat dry skin by retaining the skin’s hydration, according to some studies. Researchers discovered that applying argan oil directly to the skin and consuming argan butter improved skin moisture in postmenopausal women.
Burns: Argan oil can help treat minor burns by reducing inflammation and speeding up the healing process. Scientists discovered that applying argan oil directly to the skin of rats with second-degree burns helped the burns heal. However, more research on its human impacts is required. Argan oil may also provide UV protection, which may aid in the prevention of sunburn.
Signs of ageing: According to a 2018 study, argan oil’s anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce signs of ageing when taken orally. Argan oil may help improve skin suppleness and hence reduce outward indications of ageing, such as wrinkles, according to a 2018 study.
Atopic dermatitis: Argan oil, which is high in vitamin E, may aid to lessen atopic dermatitis irritation. Taking vitamin E supplements helped persons with atopic dermatitis improve their symptoms, according to a 2016 study.
Blood pressure and blood sugar: A 2017 study found that rats fed argan oil alongside a high-sugar diet had lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels than rats who did not get the argan oil. This shows that it may aid in the maintenance of normal blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Heart health: An older, tiny study found that ingesting argan oil can lower harmful cholesterol, lowering the risk of heart disease.
Cancer: Researchers discovered that a combination of argan oil and vitamin E could kill colon and breast cancer cells in mice in an older test-tube study. Argan oil may also help to prevent the spread of prostate cancer cells in people, according to an older study. However, more research is needed to demonstrate its efficacy in the treatment of cancer.
Although some people use argan oil to cure stretch marks, there is no scientific evidence that it is useful.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) recommends massaging argan oil daily onto stretch marks as soon as they appear if a person wishes to try it for stretch marks. This may help them blend into the background.
Before putting any new product on their skin, a person should always consult with a doctor or dermatologist.
Are there any dangers or negative effects?
Although many people believe that natural medicines are harmless, argan oil might cause undesirable side effects.
When applied topically, it may cause a skin reaction in the area where it is applied. Before using any new oil or product on their skin, people with additional allergies should consult a doctor or allergist to guarantee their safety.
If a person has a skin reaction while using argan oil, they should stop using it and seek medical advice if the symptoms persist.
Argan oil can be used as part of a skin care routine-
Before beginning a new skin care routine, a person should consult with a doctor or dermatologist, especially if they have a skin condition. This can make it easier for someone to begin utilising argan oil properly.
Argan oil can be applied directly to the skin in either its pure form as an oil or as creams and lotions. Argan oil is also found in soaps and shower creams sold in drugstores and pharmacies.
People with oily skin should avoid using any oil-based products, including argan oil, according to the AAD. This is because they have the potential to make the skin oilier.
Argan oil can also be taken orally in the form of supplements or meals like argan butter.
All instructions for skin care products or supplements should be strictly followed. This can assist them in applying or taking the correct amount.
