Of course you remember that monumental moment in 2009 when Moroccan oil became the thing, which resulted in you cradling bottles of said oil as if it were liquid gold* and liberally applying to hair at any given opportunity? Well, our love-affair with argan oil has since climbed dizzying heights, with a jar of the stuff being key to everyones beauty routine. From Taylor Swift to your Aunt Lynn – everyone seems to be a fan.
*(Fun fact: Argan oil is so luxiorus it actually has been nicknamed ‘liquid gold’).
Where did it come from?
Argan oil (FYI, argan oil and Moroccan Oil are the same thing) had been beauty’s best kept secret for centuries, with Moroccan women using it as a remedy for perfect hair, skin and nails. However, kudos to savvy CEO and brains behind Morrocanoil, Camen Tal, who took Argan oil and acquainted it to the world.
Argan oil derives from the argan tree (natch) and is notorious for being jam-packed with vitamin E, antioxidants and fatty acids, making it a firm favourite with celebrities, models and beauty bloggers.
Here are all the genius ways to use your bottle of Argan Oil…
As a Lip Balm
Banish those dry, chapped lips forever by rubbing in a few drops of Argan oil. Be sure to wipe away any excess. Voila.
As a Skin Healer
Did you know Moroccan oil has antibacterial properties and can speed up the healing process and treat damaged skin? Well, now you do! Apply a few drops to help irritated, cracked, damaged or even burned skin.
As Acne Treatment
Argan Oil is non-greasy and actually helps to balance the skin. It contains anti-oxidants which helps reduce inflammation and spots. Apply twice a day to cleansed skin.
As a Split End Treatment
Regularly rubbing Moroccan oil into your locks can actually stop you getting split ends - a beauty trick we can definitely get behind. Try including a Moroccan oil shampoo and conditioner in your shower routine to ensure you reap the benefits and enjoy a split-end-free-life (the dream?)
As a Premature-Aging Combater
From that inner-city smog, to the daily tube commute, to those harsh sun rays - our skin is well on its way to looking prune-like before our 35th birthday. Moroccan Oil however, enhances your skins moisture level and ensures your skin retains its firmness and radiance.
As a Shaving Cream
You no longer need to shell out the best part of a fiver on some shaving foam, as your trusty Argan Oil doubles up as one. Apply over cleansed skin.
As a Cuticle Saviour
Rubbing a few drops of Argan oil into your nails before bed is a sure way to keep them in tip-top condition.
As a Dreamy Bath Oil
Add a few drops of Moroccan Oil to your bath for super-moisterised skin. Add candles, prosecco and a great book for a very zen evening (note: not into the actual bath or it will be quite the opposite).
As an Oil To Whip Up Your Morning Eggs
You can cook with Argan oil, but it has to be a ‘culinary Argan Oil’ which is specifically toasted before bottling. Culinary Argan oil has a nutty flavour and can add richness to both sweet and savoury foods. It claims to lower cholesterol levels, stimulate circulation and strengthen the body’s natural defences.
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Here Are Some Of The Best Moroccan Oil Products You Can Buy Right Now**
Argan oil
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Wild Argan Oil Body Butter, The Body Shop, £14
This feels super luxurious on skin without leaving it greasy and smells divine. Apply liberally on cleansed skin for best results.
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Kérastase Versatile Beautifying Oil, Kérastase, £36.50
This oil is a great all-rounder and is suitable for all hair types. It leaves hair feeling nourished and has added heat protection.
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Dr Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Night Cream, Holland and Barrett, £9.59
This super-moisturising cream gets to work whilst you sleep, meaning minimal effort for healthy-looking skin. The rich source of vitamins and essential fatty acids helps skin look younger and rejuvenated.
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Organic Argan Oil, Neal’s Yard Remedies, £17.50
Daily use of this face oil can help against daily environmental factors which can play havoc with your skin and leave it radiant. Apply a few drops into your cuticles for stronger and healthier nails.
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Morrocan oil treatment, Morrocanoil, £31.85
The iconic creation which revolutionised argan oil and turned it into a global sensation is still a firm favourite in the beauty world. This can be used as a hair serum to minimise blow drying time and leaves hair shiny, healthy and manageable.
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Argan Liquid Gold Self-Tanning Face Oil 30 ml, Josie Maran, £30
The miracle treatment not only delivers intense hydration and reduces signs of aging, but also works as a self-tanner, giving you a sun-kissed, youthful looking glow!
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Pomegranate, Argan & Grapeseed Hand Therapy, Crabtree & Evelyn, £20
This intensive hand cream contains macadamia nut, pomegranate, grapeseed, and argan oils which leaves your hands feel softer with each use.
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Superbly Restorative Argan Dry Oil, Kiehl's, £30
A cult favourite, This versatile product can be used to improve the appearance and texture of both your hair and your skin. It absorbs completely into the skin, leaving no greasy residue.
Cover photo: @moroccanoil