Argan Oil
Flowering:
Spring.
Provenance, origin:
Morocco.
Commonly known as:
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (I.N.C.I.), Argan oil, Argan tree oil, Iron tree, Olive tree of Morocco.
Location:
South-west of Morocco, region of Tindouf in Algeria.
Benefits:
Emollient, toning, soothing, healing, firming, softening, antioxidant, nourishing, moisturizing, regenerating, protective, softening, regenerating, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal.
Botanical name:
Argania spinosa.
Extraction process:
First cold pressure.
Phytochemical composition:
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid), monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid), saturated fatty acids (palmitic acid, stearic acid), sterols (spinasterol, schottebol, campesterol), vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols), phenolic compounds (ferulic, syringic, vanillic acid), triterpenic alcohols (beta-amyrin, butyrospermol, tirucallol), triacylglycerides, carotenoids (xanthophylls), phytosterols (cycloartane), squalene.
Physical characteristics:
Appearance : Oily liquid ; Color : Yellow to amber ; Odor : Faint hazelnut ; Touch : Fat.
Family:
Sapotaceae.
Sensorial properties:
Quality : 100% pure, virgin and of natural origin ingredients ; Resulting from organic farming ; Density : 0,908 - 0,918 g/cm3 ; Oxidative potential : Very stable with an induction time of 16,6 (110°C, 10 L/h) ; Comedogenicity index : 0 ; Saponification index : 190 - 195 mgKOH/g ; Insoluble in water ; Soluble in chloroform and hexane.
Part of the plant extracted:
Fruits (kernels).
Concerns:
All skin and hair types, but more particularly dry skin, mature skin and dry and damaged hair. Also indicated against dandruff, brittle nails, and in the prevention of stretch marks.
Details
Use
Face care (face creams, make-up removing oils, lip balms, after-shave care, eye care, masks); Body care (washing oils, nourishing nail care, balms, milks, hand and foot creams, solid soaps, shower gels, sun creams, massage oils); Hair care (shampoos, masks, care oils, lotions, detangling creams/balms.
Preservation
Stable plant oil. Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture in tightly closed containers. Do not leave near sources of heat and humidity. Store in an opaque glass bottle to slow down the oxidation of the vegetable oil and to preserve its properties.
Contra-Indications and Precautions
Argan oil is well tolerated by all types of skin and hair. It has no contraindications. It is suitable for pregnant and nursing women, as well as babies and young children.
Find out more
The Argan tree is found only in one region of the world: the arid zones of southwest Morocco. In the fruit of the argan tree is a nucleus that contains one to three seeds known as arganons. From these kernels is extracted the oil in question, with nourishing and protective virtues, recommended to take care of dry and dehydrated skin and hair.