Morocco's liquid gold: Argan oil
Morocco's liquid gold: Argan oil
In the heart of southwestern Morocco, between the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and the arid plains of Souss, grows a miraculous tree: the argan tree. For centuries, Berber women have been extracting a precious oil from this ancient tree, which is now the pride of Morocco's heritage. Our argan oil, sourced directly from a local cooperative, continues this centuries-old tradition while guaranteeing exceptional quality and fair trade.
The thousand-year history of the argan tree
The argan tree (Argania spinosa) is a survivor from the Tertiary period, a living witness to a time when the Sahara was a green land. This tree, endemic to Morocco, can live up to 200 years and has developed roots that can reach up to 30 meters into the ground to draw the water it needs to survive. The Berbers call it "the blessed tree" because it provides them with wood, fodder, and above all, this golden oil with incomparable virtues.
The harvesting and production of argan oil is traditionally the preserve of women. Organized into cooperatives since the 1990s, they perpetuate a know-how passed down from mother to daughter. These cooperatives, including the one that supplies us, play a crucial role in the economic empowerment of rural Moroccan women while preserving the argan forest, classified as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO since 1998.
From nut to oil: an exceptional artisanal process
The production of our argan oil follows a meticulous process that guarantees its purity and quality:
Harvesting: Between June and August, women gather the fruits that have fallen naturally from the argan tree. This respectful method preserves the tree and ensures that the fruits are optimally ripe.
Manual extraction: The nuts are cracked one by one by hand to extract the kernels. It takes around 30 kilograms of fruit to obtain one liter of oil, which explains its rarity and value.
Cold pressing: The kernels are mechanically cold pressed without roasting for cosmetic use, thus preserving all the nutritional properties of the oil.
Filtration: The oil is carefully filtered to remove any impurities, resulting in a golden, clear, and pure liquid.
The biochemical treasures of argan oil
Argan oil is a veritable natural pharmacy. Its unique composition makes it an incomparable ally for skin and hair:
- Vitamin E (tocopherols): A powerful antioxidant, it protects the skin from premature aging.
- Essential fatty acids: 80% unsaturated fatty acids (omega 6 and 9) that nourish and regenerate the skin
- Squalene: A natural precursor to cholesterol, it maintains skin hydration.
- Polyphenols: Anti-inflammatory and healing properties
- Sterols: Improve the skin's barrier function
Fragrant innovation: Argan oil with gardenia
Our gardenia-scented argan oil represents the perfect combination of Moroccan tradition and aromatherapy.
Gardenia is known for its properties:
- Balancing: Regulates sebum production
- Toning: Tightens pores and firms the skin
- Soothing: Calms irritation and redness
- Regenerating: Promotes cell renewal
This synergy creates an exceptional oil, particularly suited to combination and mature skin, offering a unique sensory experience while multiplying the benefits for the skin.
Beauty uses and rituals
For the face
Natural anti-aging serum: Apply 2-3 drops of pure argan oil to cleansed face, morning and evening. Massage gently in upward circular motions. The oil penetrates quickly without leaving a greasy film.
Eye contour: Gently pat a drop of oil around the eye to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Argan oil is gentle enough for this sensitive area.
Nourishing mask: Once a week, apply the oil generously to the face, leave on for 20 minutes, then wipe off any excess with a soft cotton pad.
For the Body
Daily moisturizing: After showering, massage the oil onto damp skin all over your body. The geranium version offers an extra moment of aromatic relaxation.
Stretch mark care: Massage the affected areas morning and night. Argan oil improves skin elasticity and helps prevent and reduce stretch marks.
Repairing after-sun care: Soothe and nourish your skin after sun exposure with argan oil, which will help prolong your tan while repairing damage.
For hair
Hair mask: Apply generously to the lengths and ends, wrap in a warm towel, leave on for at least 30 minutes before shampooing.
Anti-frizz serum: A few drops on dry ends tame unruly hair and add shine without weighing it down.
Scalp care: Massage the oil into the scalp to treat dandruff and itching.
For nails and cuticles
Massage a drop of oil onto each nail and cuticle. Argan oil strengthens brittle nails and softens cuticles.
Synergies with products in our range
Argan oil fits perfectly into a complete skincare routine and can be combined with our other natural products for optimal results:
With black soap and a kessa glove
Create your own hammam ritual: after exfoliating with black soap and a kessa glove, apply argan oil generously all over your body. Skin that has been rid of dead cells absorbs the oil's nutrients more effectively.
With rhassoul clay
Mix a teaspoon of argan oil into your rhassoul mask for a purifying and nourishing treatment. This combination is ideal for combination skin that needs balancing.
With rose water
Spray rose water onto your face, then immediately apply argan oil. Rose water prepares the skin and helps the oil penetrate, while also providing its toning properties.
With henna
Add a tablespoon of argan oil to your henna mixture to nourish your hair during the natural coloring process and achieve shinier highlights.
With essential oils
Use argan oil as a base to create your own aromatic blends. It pairs particularly well with:
- Lavender to soothe
- Tea tree for purification
- Ylang-ylang to regenerate
- Lemon for toning
With shea butter
For very dry skin, create an ultra-nourishing balm by mixing equal parts argan oil and melted shea butter. This combination offers intense protection and nourishment.
Storage and quality tips
To preserve all the properties of your argan oil:
- Store away from direct light and heat.
- Close the bottle tightly after each use.
- Use within 24 months after opening.
- High-quality pure argan oil has a light nutty smell and a golden color.
- If the oil solidifies in cold weather, this is a sign of purity; it will regain its fluidity at room temperature.
Ethical and sustainable commitment
By choosing our argan oil, you are supporting:
Local artisans and producers: The cooperative guarantees fair income for women producers, contributing to their financial and social independence.
The environment: Traditional production preserves the argan forest, a natural barrier against desertification.
Biodiversity: The argan tree is home to a unique ecosystem, providing a refuge for many endemic species.
Cultural heritage: Every drop perpetuates centuries of Berber expertise.
Testimonials and traditions
In Berber culture, argan oil accompanies all of life's important moments. Brides rub it on their bodies to glow on their wedding day. Mothers massage their babies with this gentle oil from birth. Elders say that a woman who uses argan oil regularly will keep her skin velvety soft into old age.
Today, this ancient wisdom has been confirmed by modern science, and argan oil has conquered the world. From the most luxurious spas to daily beauty routines, it has established itself as an essential natural skincare product.
A timeless beauty elixir
Argan oil, whether pure or delicately scented with geranium, is much more than just a cosmetic product. It is a bridge between nature and your beauty routine. Each bottle contains the essence of a unique terroir, patient work, and the promise of natural, lasting beauty.
Incorporate argan oil into your daily routine and discover why, for thousands of years, it has remained the best-kept beauty secret of Berber women. Your skin will thank you, and you will be helping to preserve a heritage that is unique in the world.
Discover our selection of pure and scented argan oils, sourced directly from a Moroccan cooperative. Each purchase supports fair trade and the preservation of the argan forest.
