Argan Oil
Protects skin and moisturizes
Where it’s from: The argan we source comes from a woman owned business who brings the oil directly to the US from her native Morocco. The production of Argan oil is labor-intensive. Each nut is collected, then cracked open by hand with a stone, the kernels found inside are then cold-pressed to release the oil. Why we use it: Argan trees are perfectly suited for the harsh, dry desert conditions where they are typically found in the southwest of Morocco. The oil from their kernels therefor performs the functions of sealing in the moisture present in our skin and providing protection from sun, dry air conditions and extreme temperatures. Argan is naturally high in Oleic acid which aids in the suppleness, flexibility and softness of our skin. Linoleic acid, also naturally present in Argan oil, is absorbed quickly and penetrates deeply to protect the deeper layers of our skin. High in antioxidants (polyphenols), Argan oil, also protects our skin from environmental pollutants by neutralizing airborne free-radicals which can cause damage to skin cells. Fun fact: Argan oil is one of Morocco’s most valuable exports and Argan trees are endemic to the region and only grows naturally in and around Morocco. The trees are now under the protection of UNESCO. The Argan trees of southwest Morocco provide an unique environmental benefit as well and are preventing desertification of this area by the encroaching Sarah desert. In response to the new demand for the beneficial oil in cosmetics the Moroccan government is committed to planting 200,000 hectares of trees by 2025 to ensure the long term viability of this resource.