Can You Use Argan Oil To Grow And Strengthen Your Nails?
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Are you on a quest to transform your nails from brittle to beautiful?
Let’s talk about a little secret weapon that could be your new nail care MVP—argan oil!
Whether you’re a fan of vibrant gel polish colours, love the durability of nail enhancements, or swear by your trusty top coat, incorporating argan oil could elevate your nail game to dazzling new heights.
Known in beauty circles as one of the most nourishing cuticle oils, argan oil is your go-to for not just surviving but thriving in your nail care routine.
Let’s dive into how this miraculous oil can help you grow stronger, healthier nails!
What’s The Big Deal With Argan Oil?
Argan oil, often dubbed ‘liquid gold’ is a plant oil produced from the kernels of the argan tree (Argania spinosa), which is indigenous to Morocco.
Extracted from the kernels of the argan tree (Argania spinosa), this oil has been a cornerstone in the local diet and traditional beauty rituals for centuries.
The process of extracting argan oil is meticulous and labour-intensive, traditionally done by hand, which is one reason for its precious status.
But argan oil is just one oil that our nails love, other oils also offer significant benefits to nail health.
Here’s a look at a few other popular choices:
Jojoba Oil: This oil is very similar to the natural oils our skin produces. Jojoba oil penetrates deeply into the nail beds and cuticles, providing intense moisture and promoting nail strength.
Coconut Oil: Known for its moisturising properties, coconut oil is great for nails prone to dryness and brittleness. It contains saturated fats that help retain moisture and lauric acid, which has antibacterial properties to keep nail infections at bay.
Sweet Almond Oil: Rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium, sweet almond oil helps to nourish and strengthen the nails, promoting growth and reducing breakage.
Tea Tree Oil: While it’s more of an essential oil and should be used diluted, tea tree oil is beneficial for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It can help treat fungal nail infections and keep the nail area healthy and clean.
Lavender Oil: Known for its calming effects, lavender oil not only helps soothe the skin around the nails but also supports nail growth through its ability to improve blood circulation. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help to keep the cuticles gentle and well-nourished.
If you’re feeling fancy, you might like combining one of these oils with argan oil, which can create a potent mix that addresses a variety of nail issues, from dryness and breakage to fungal infections.
So How Does Argan Oil Work Its Magic?
Argan oil works wonders for your nails, thanks to its rich composition. Here’s a breakdown of how it helps your nails stay healthy and strong:
Deep Moisturisation: This oil is rich in oleic and linoleic acid. These aren’t just fancy words; they are essential fatty acids that play a critical role in maintaining the skin’s natural barrier and hydration levels. When applied to the nails and cuticles, argan oil absorbs quickly and provides deep hydration, which helps to prevent brittleness and breakage. This moisturisation is crucial, especially if you’re someone who frequently washes your hands or uses hand sanitisers, which can strip moisture from your nails and cuticles.
Strengthens Nails: Vitamin E is another vital component of argan oil. This antioxidant not only nurtures the skin but also helps to strengthen nails. Vitamin E promotes healthy nail growth by neutralising free radicals that can weaken nail cells. It also improves blood circulation around the nails, ensuring that your nail beds are well-nourished, which is essential for healthy and strong nails.
Improves Nail Flexibility: Brittle nails tend to snap and break. Argan oil’s hydrating properties help improve the flexibility of your nails, making them less likely to break. Flexible nails can withstand daily wear and tear better than dry, brittle ones.
Healing and Protection: For those with damaged cuticles or weak nails, argan oil can act as a healer. The antioxidant properties of the oil help protect the nails from environmental damage such as pollution and UV rays. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated cuticles and help heal minor cuts and abrasions around the nail area.
Enhances Nail Appearance: Regular application of argan oil not only strengthens nails but also gives them a healthy, attractive sheen. This natural glow makes your nails look well-groomed and polished even without nail polish.
Organic Argan Oils To Try
John Masters Organics 100% Organic Argan Oil from Naturisimo
How To Apply Argan Oil To Your Nails
Applying argan oil to your nails is a simple yet effective routine that can greatly enhance their health and appearance.
Here’s how you can do it step-by-step for the best results:
Prepare Your Nails
Cleanse: Start by cleaning your nails thoroughly. Remove any nail polish using a gentle remover, and wash your hands to ensure there’s no residue or dirt on your nails and cuticles. This step ensures that the argan oil can penetrate deeply without any barriers.
2. Apply the Oil
Method: Use a dropper or your fingertips to apply a small amount of argan oil to each nail. Focus particularly on the cuticles and the skin around the nails, as these areas benefit significantly from additional moisture and care.
Massage: Gently massage the oil into the nail beds and cuticles for a few minutes. This not only helps in absorbing the oil but also stimulates blood circulation to the nails, promoting healthier and stronger growth.
3. Leave To Absorb
Soaking Time: Allow the oil to absorb completely. Ideally, apply argan oil at bedtime so you can leave it on overnight, providing ample time for it to work its magic without interruption.
4. Optional – Cover Your Hands
Lock in Moisture: For an intensive treatment, after applying the oil, you can wear cotton gloves throughout the night. This helps to lock in the moisture and ensures that the oil doesn’t rub off, giving it more time to penetrate deeply.
5. Repeat
Consistency Is Key: For best results, make this a part of your nightly routine. Regular application is essential in maintaining moisture levels and ensuring continuous nourishment for your nails and cuticles.
And there you have it—a simple secret at your fingertips to unlock the full potential of your nails.
Argan oil with its deep nourishing properties and ability to strengthen and moisturise, is more than just a cuticle oil—it’s a game-changer.
Embrace the magic of argan oil and watch your nails transform into the strong, healthy, and beautiful tips you’ve always wanted.
Happy pampering!
