Argan oil – what’s the buzz about?

November 10, 8:33 AMWest Palm Beach Skin & Bodycare ExaminerShannon Dalbo

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An Argan plantation in Morocco's southwestern region.                 Photo: Luc Viatour

For the past year or so, there has been a surge of products introduced to the market that all have one thing in common – argan oil. And it seems to be showing up more and more in both skin and hair care. So what is it? Also referred to as “liquid gold”, the oil is derived from argan tree nuts, found only in a small region of Morocco making it one of the rarest oils in the world. With more essential fatty acids and vitamin E than olive oil, argan oil is an intensive hydrator and is also said to naturally treat various skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, and even scarring, thanks to the oil’s high amount of phytosterols which are good for scar tissue. It’s a proven anti-aging ingredient that improves skin’s elasticity, increases regenerating capabilities, neutralizes free radicals, revitalizes overall texture and more.

Argan oil is also a small miracle for even the hardest-to-manage hair. It can be used on wet hair as a blow-dry protectant, dry hair for added shine, or both, and creates a smooth, shiny texture with only a few drops and somehow doesn’t weigh hair down. A favorite hair care line with argan oil, and one of the first of its kind, is Moroccan Oil. It’s a bit pricey at $40 for the 3.4 oz bottle but worth every penny – plus it lasts for months. And unlike many smoothing products and shine serums that just coat hair with silicone, Moroccan Oil nourishes and repairs damaged hair. The company recently launched an entire line of hair care including shampoo, conditioner, styling creams and masks that is equally luxurious as the original oil.

Here are some of the top products with argan oil for skin and hair… And if you’re not yet sold on the benefits of this brilliant oil, maybe this fact will: All argan oil sold today is produced by female cooperatives which provide steady income, good working conditions, healthcare and education to the local women of Morocco, empowering them with strength and independence in a traditionally male-dominated society. The co-op developed an ecosystem reforestation effort so the supply of argan oil will never be depleted. So go ahead and treat yourself to one of these fantastically rich products. Doing good never felt so good.