Wednesday, February 25, 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.

Argan oil is nicknamed the "Gold of Morocco," and it is extracted from the fruit of the argan tree, which is native to southwestern Morocco. Due to this small growing area, argan oil is one of the world's rarest oils. The Berber women of Morocco have been producing the oil for centuries, often by hand. Argan oil production continues to be an essential source of funding for the region.

After the fruit pits are broken open, the kernels found inside are put through a cold-press to extract the oil. A cold-press is used to retain all of the oil's nutrients and maximize the many health benefits that the oil provides. For the edible culinary oil, the kernels are roasted before the cold-press process, giving this exotic oil its signature nutty flavor that makes it perfect for salads and dipping 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.

Wrinkles are formed as we age because our skin loses moisture and collagen. The eye area, having the thinnest skin on the face, is often the first place that wrinkles will emerge. This vulnerable skin around the eyes can greatly benefit from argan oil, because it improves the skin's resilience and replenishes its moisture levels, avoiding more skin damage and fading eye wrinkles away.

In addition to reducing eye wrinkles and strengthening the skin to maintain a youthful appearance, cosmetic argan oil is also an effective treatment for psoriasis, eczema and acne because it reduces inflammation, prevents moisture loss and regulates the skin's oil production.

Argan oil can also be used as an anti aging massage oil. Plus, it nourishes and hydrates hair and nails, and pregnant women have found argan oil beneficial for diminishing the appearance of stretch marks.

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. - 15438

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