Why argan oil suits the skin
Argan oil is a natural product that positively enriches skin and hair. Because it is light and easily absorbed, it gives the skin a luminous glow, and because it is so pure, it requires no stabilisers, unlike synthetic face creams, which often contain preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin.
It is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin E, and rich in fatty acids, mainly oleic and linoleic acid, which help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. It is lightweight and non-comedogenic, which means it does not clog pores, so it suits different skin types, including oily skin.
A daily moisturiser
Kenzul Atlas argan oil works really well on your skin as an everyday moisturiser, and a few drops go a long way. You only need two drops to see a difference: argan oil absorbs easily and is non-greasy, so you won’t be left with shiny skin, and your skin not only looks but also feels instantly more hydrated. The smell is slightly nutty, but not overpowering.
I’ve always been prone to an oily T-zone, but surprisingly found that my skin has adapted. My skin now has a nice glow to it and the shiny spots have reduced dramatically. I use two drops morning and night.
From our journal, 2016
Five steps for your routine
- Cleanse first. Before applying any skincare, cleanse your skin to remove dirt, make-up and impurities, so the argan oil can absorb properly.
- Use a small amount. A few drops of oil are enough to cover your whole face and neck. Using too much can leave a greasy film on the skin.
- Apply to damp skin. Argan oil is best applied while your skin is still damp after cleansing: it helps retain moisture and keeps the skin from feeling greasy.
- Massage it in. Gently massage the oil into your skin with circular movements.
- Use it day and night. Argan oil can be used as a moisturiser in the morning and in the evening, to keep your skin hydrated and protected against the elements.
Argan oil and ageing skin
Argan oil is often considered a beneficial anti-ageing product. Its antioxidants, such as vitamin E, help neutralise free radicals, and a well-hydrated skin looks fuller and more youthful. Individual results can vary, so it is always a good idea to do a patch test, and to consult a dermatologist before adding a new product to your skincare routine, especially if you have sensitive skin or specific skin concerns.
After shaving
Argan oil can be applied to the skin after shaving. Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it keeps the skin moisturised, and it contains polyphenols, which are known to help calm irritation such as razor burn and bumps. Apply a few drops to the area irritated by shaving: it adds moisture straight away and leaves a cooling feeling.
Lips, nails and feet
Lips. Argan oil is a great lip softener. Apply one drop directly onto your lips. For a deeper lip scrub, mix argan oil with a little brown sugar and vanilla extract, gently massage the mixture onto your lips and rinse off. Best after your morning and evening face routine, or whenever needed throughout the day.
Nails and cuticles. Pure argan oil’s non-greasy moisture is ideal for cuticles and nails. Drop the oil directly onto each nail, rub it into the nail bed and cuticle, and leave it to soak in. Wash and rinse thoroughly, then apply nail polish if you like.
Feet. Cold weather can cause dry skin and cracked heels. Once a week, give yourself a warm foot bath, exfoliate with a foot scrub to remove dead skin, dry your feet and gently massage in 3 drops of warmed argan oil. You’ll soon notice how soft your feet can be.
Massage oil, and a scent of your own
Argan oil is also a fantastic carrier oil, for a relaxing massage or for your favourite essential oils. Pure argan oil has a slight natural nutty aroma which doesn’t last long on the skin; by adding approximately 15–18 drops of essential oil per 30 ml of argan oil, you can create a totally different fragrance.
- For a calming massage: add 6–7 drops of organic valerian essential oil to 30 ml of argan oil.
- For oily skin: add 15–18 drops of organic peppermint essential oil to 30 ml of argan oil. In the evening, after washing your face, apply 2 drops and leave to dry naturally.
A word of caution: essential oils are highly concentrated, so take care with the amount you use to avoid irritating your skin. For adults, use approximately 4 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of argan oil. Some essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy, so please check before you use them.
During pregnancy
Pure argan oil is free from synthetic ingredients such as parabens, sulphates and phthalates, which makes it a pregnancy-friendly option. In the morning and evening, warm a few drops of argan oil in the palms of your hands and massage onto your growing belly to keep the skin moisturised.
Gentle enough for little ones
Since pure argan oil is 100% natural, it is gentle enough to be used on your baby’s skin, for example for baby massage. Argan oil comes from a nut, so always do a small patch test first to make sure your child doesn’t have an allergy to tree nuts.
