You have probably heard of Argan oil or “liquid gold,” as it is commonly referred. However, you probably do not know where this oil comes from.
Well, it is simply derived from the fruits of the Argan tree that is commonly found in Morocco. The oil has been used for ages for beauty and cooking but today, we are going to focus on its benefits for hair.
Stick around to find out more.
How to use Argan Oil for Hair
Once you are ready to reap the benefits of this amazing oil, here is one of the best ways to do it.
Argan Oil Hair Mask
You can make your own Argan oil by pressing the fresh kernels of the Argan tree but not all of us are in a position to do that. What is more accessible to many people is ready-made oil that can be found in stores.
What you need
A bottle of pure Argan oil
Comb
A shower cap
How to do it
The process of applying Argan oil is as simple as:
Step 1
Put a generous amount of the oil on your palms. About 6 to 8 drops should do but this entirely depends on the type, length and volume of your hair.
If you have a thicker, longer mane, feel free to use more oil.
Step 2
Start applying the oil on your hair from the ends and work your way to the roots. You want to ensure that your hair is fully saturated with the oil.
Step 3
Use a wide-toothed comb to distribute the oil evenly on your scalp and use your finger tips to massage it in. You want to do this for about 10 minutes or until you feel that the oil is fully absorbed into your scalp.
You can go crazy with the massage because you can never have too much of it. In fact, this will help improve blood circulation in your scalp.
Step 4
Once you are sure that the oil has penetrated your scalp and your hair is saturated in it. Put a shower cap on to cover your hair.
This helps retain heat which helps in deeply conditioning your hair.
Step 5
If you have somewhere to go, let the mask sit for about two to three hours but for best results allow the oil to stay overnight.
Step 6
After allowing the mask to sit for whatever amount of time you choose, use mild shampoo and warm water to wash the oil off your hair.
Apply conditioner as usual and rinse out thoroughly after you are done.
Tip:
For more moisturization of your hair, allow the conditioner to sit in your hair for about five minutes. Skip conditioning if your hair is extremely fine.
For best results, you want to repeat this process at least once a week. However, you can use this mask whenever you feel the need to rejuvenate and replenish your hair.
Moroccan Argan Oil Benefits for Hair
So, what does Moroccan oil do for hair? Well, the oil is rich in vitamin E, antioxidants, and fatty acids all of which have benefits for your hair and scalp.
Here are more benefits your hair is likely to reap from the oil.
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Conditioning and Moisturizing
We have already mentioned that Argan oil contains fatty acids so as you can imagine, the oil works to moisturize your hair and scalp.
Besides that, the oil also contains linoleic and oleic acids that lubricate the scalp and lock moisture in your hair.
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Enhances Scalp Health
Argan oil comes with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which are perfect for the skin. Of course, this improves conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis that can cause hair loss.
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Repairs Coloring and Styling Damage
Styling and coloring your hair can cause it to be weak and ultimately damaged because the products used to do that usually contain harsh chemicals.
In its purest form, Argan oil can help repair the damage caused to your hair by styling or coloring it.
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Protection from the Sun
Moroccan women have used Argan oil for decades to safeguard their skin from the harmful rays of the
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Reduces Hair Loss
As we have previously mentioned, Argan oil contains fatty acids and contains antioxidants. This works to keep your hair and scalp moisturized and protected from free radicals.
What this means is that your hair is less likely to break or shed.
How to Choose the Right Argan Oil for Your Hair
As you shop for Argan oil for your hair, you need to know that there are unscrupulous people who will put out products in the market that are not entirely authentic.
Here is how to tell that you are getting the real thing.
Ingredients List
When Argan oil is combined with other ingredients, it effects become degraded. As such, you want to pick a bottle with a single ingredient which is pure Argan oil.
No, fragrance, preservatives, or even water.
The Packaging
Avoid purchasing Argan oil in plastic or clear bottles. Why? Because light degrades the oil’s beneficial properties so tinted glass is the best way to store the oil.
Smell
Pure Argan oil has a mild scent that sort of smells like rubber band or popcorn. This smell disappears moments after it gets into contact with your skin.
Avoid any oil that is deodorized or has a strong scent.
The Consistency
Argan Oil should not be too runny, and should have a smooth consistency that quickly disappears into the skin once applied.
It should also have a calming effect on the skin once applied.
Shade
If you are looking for cosmetic Argan oil, it comes in a light yellow color. If the tint of yellow is too light, then it is possible that it has been combined with other oils and this reduces its effectiveness.
Cooking Argan oil should have a rich golden brown tint.
Conclusion
Isn’t it amazing all the wonderful things that Argan oil can do for your hair such as safeguarding it from damage and moisturizing your scalp.
Of course, this can reduce split ends, breakage and lead to a healthier and thicker hair.
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