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Friday, February 20, 2009

Argan Oil for Ageless Eyes

By Elena McCree

Argan oil is making headlines as a new ingredient that may revolutionize the anti aging industry in 2009. In reality, it is only new to North America, but argan oil is generating interest among skin care experts for its ability to effectively reduce eye wrinkles and maintain youthful skin.

Also known as the "Gold of Morocco," argan oil comes from the fruit of the argan tree, which is indigenous to southwestern Morocco. Because the argan tree only grows in this small area, argan oil is one of the rarest oils in the world. For centuries, the Berber women of Morocco have been using and producing argan oil, and the industry is still vital to the area's financial support.

The oil extraction process begins with the pits being removed from the fruit and broken open to reveal kernels inside. The oil is then extracted from these kernels by a cold-press, which allows all of the nutrients to remain in the oil, boosting its health benefits. Two kinds of oil can be produced: culinary and cosmetic. To make the culinary oil, the kernels are roasted prior to the cold-press. This oil has a nutty taste that many enjoy on salads and bread.

The cosmetic argan oil is left raw, so the seeds aren't roasted. This oil is used in the anti aging industry because it is packed with vitamin E, which helps skin retain moisture and reduces inflammation. Because vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, it fights the free radicals that cause signs of aging such as eye wrinkles. Argan oil also contains linoleic and oleic acids and essential fatty acids that moisturize and improve the skin's elasticity.

As we age, our skin loses moisture and collagen, causing wrinkles and sagging. The skin around the eye is the thinnest on the face, so it is often the first area to show the signs of aging. Using argan oil on this delicate tissue can restore its moisture and provide a protective barrier, diminishing the appearance of eye wrinkles and preventing further skin damage.

On top of its anti aging benefits, cosmetic argan oil is also used to treat acne, eczema and psoriasis, because it inhibits moisture loss, helps to control oil production and decreases inflammation.

Argan oil is also an effective moisturizer for nails and hair, and pregnant women can use it to avoid and reduce stretch marks. Additionally, some spas use argan oil in anti aging massages.

Argan oil can be bought as cosmetic or culinary oil, or the cosmetic oil can be found in eye wrinkle creams and anti aging products, such as BABOR Argan Cream. This cream also lists aloe vera and arganyl among its ingredients. Aloe vera moisturizes the skin and reduces inflammation. Arganyl is a solution of antioxidants extracted from argan tree leaves that protects the skin's collagen fibers, preventing breakdown and preserving its elasticity.

With all of these skin care benefits, it's no wonder that argan oil is being called an anti aging super ingredient and one of the most potent eye wrinkle fighters available.

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