For years, we’ve been hearing about beauty products for the skin and hair that come packed with the super ingredient Argan oil—but what exactly is Argan oil, and what makes it so good for us?

We had questions, and lucky for us, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Lian Mack was willing to answer all of them. She told us all about Argan oil’s origins and its skin benefits—and why she’s all about the 100% Argan oil brand Beauty Nut.

SH: Where exactly does Argan oil come from?

Dr. Lian Mack: Argan oil is made from the kernels that grow on the argan trees native to Morocco.

Beauty Nut: Argan oil tree

(via Beauty Nut)

SH: What components does Argan oil have that make it so good for the skin? What benefits does each of those components give to the skin?

LM: Argan oil’s consistency of not being too heavy or too light makes it the perfect ingredient to use on all skin types. Argan oil is generously packed with omega fatty acids, vitamin E and linoleic acids, which all work in synergy to lightly moisturize your skin and soften dry patches. When used in the hair, Argan oil’s properties help to hydrate and smooth, reducing frizz.

Omega fatty acids serve to regulate the skin’s oil production, improve balanced hydration, manage breakouts and minimize signs of aging. Vitamin E is a well-known antioxidant and is effective at reducing UV damage in skin. It protects the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental free radicals.

Linoleic acids are fundamental in the formation of ceramides in the skin. Ceramides are a key component of the outermost portion of the skin (or stratum corneum) that helps the skin retain moisture. Linoleic acids help to make the skin’s barrier stronger, effectively keeping water in and irritants out.

Beauty Nut: Argan oil swatch

(via Beauty Nut)

SH: What makes Argan oil so versatile for different skin types? What skin types is Argan oil best for?

LM: Compared to other oils, Argan oil is the perfect consistency, being neither too heavy nor too light. For those who experience dry skin, Argan oil hydrates with its moisturizing properties, while those with oily skin may also find it tolerable as it is lightweight and won’t leave the skin greasy. All skin types can benefit.

SH: What types of skin conditions does Argan oil help to treat?

LM: It reduces sun damage caused by oxidative stress, combats dry skin and eczema, soothes skin conditions like psoriasis and rosacea and reduces skin’s oiliness. It has an anti-sebum effect and prevents and reduces stretch marks.

SH: Why do some Argan oils contain goat ingredients? How does not including them make Beauty Nut different, and what are the benefits?

LM: Oddly enough, goats can be a part of the oil-making process in some places. Goats ingest the Argan nuts. The nuts are not digested and pass through the digestive system whole. Once the nuts are excreted, they are gathered and cracked open. Through the goat’s digestion, the shells of the nuts become easier to open and the processing goes from there. These days, the Argan nuts are harvested without the help of goats, but it’s good to know the little history behind it!

Beauty Nut prides themselves on not using goats to harvest ingredients. The brand is 100% cruelty-free.

LM: Is there anything else teen girls should know about Beauty Nut, or Argan oil in general?

LM: I am an advocate for Beauty Nut because the brand is socially conscious, purchases directly from local Moroccan women cooperatives and donates 10% of all net profits back to the community. The brand’s ethos stood out to me with a mission to give back in the beauty industry. Any teen that uses these products should certainly take pride in the products but most importantly the story behind it all.

Beauty Nut Pure Argan Oil

(via Beauty Nut)

Love learning what does into your products? Click HERE to find out all about the beauty ingredient black tulip extract—and what it does for skin.

sweet news directlyto your inbox.

argan oil

What Exactly IS the Beauty Super-Ingredient Argan Oil? We Got the Scoop From a Dermatologist

sweet news directly
to your inbox.