Review: Aura Cacia Organic Argan Oil

By now, I'm sure everyone and their grandmother has heard of argan oil.  It's touted as a "key ingredient" in loads of mainstream products, and the more naturally inclined rave about using it straight for skincare, haircare, and everything in between.  I'm a little late jumping on this bandwagon, but after using it the last couple months, I'm firmly aboard and here to stay!
 


Product Description: Argan oil contains high levels of skin rejuvenating essential fatty acids. This rare and remarkable oil has traditionally been processed by hand from nuts collected in protected stands of native trees and has been used for centuries to moisturize and nourish the skin in the arid North African climate.

Aura Cacia’s Moroccan Argan Oil provides hair therapy when you need it most. Whether you prefer products for natural hair, a hair treatment or curly hair products, argan oil can be used in a variety of ways that will improve your hair’s strength, combat dryness and scalp issues as well as increase shine and softness.

Apply as a general body oil, a nourishing hair and scalp massage or to soften and rejuvenate dry skin.


Ingredients:  Organic argan (argania spinosa) kernel oil

Price: 1 fl oz for $14.99 from Aura Cacia or $10.19 from Vitacost 

My Thoughts: I've been applying this to my damp hair after showering for about two months now.  I take one pump, rub it between my hands and apply to my hair, starting at the ends.  I work it up the hair too, stopping just shy of my scalp.  My hair routine is quite simple - basically I just apply this, scrunch my hair and let it air dry.  Since adding the argan oil, my curls are more defined and my hair is overall more tidy and healthy looking, with less frizz and fly aways.

I've heard some people talk about not liking the smell of argan oil, but I have no complaints.  In fact, I actually really like the smell.  It's nutty and a little sweet, but overall, the scent is very mild.  It also disappears within a couple minutes of application.   

I haven't experimented much with using this for skincare yet, although I did try patting a small amount under my eyes last night, in the hopes of helping diminish dark circles.  My undereye area seems brighter today, but I also got extra sleep last night, so it's hard to say if the argan oil is responsible or not.  I'll have to report back once I've had the chance to test it out some more. 

Lastly, I'm also completely sold on Aura Cacia's packaging.  It comes in a lovely amber glass bottle, with a handy pump top.  Both the coloured glass and the pump help your oil to last longer.  The dark glass keeps out light and the pump keeps the oil sanitary and minimizes how much air it is exposed to.  It also dispenses just the right amount of oil and prevents any oily messes. 

The Bottom Line: Even though I'm just starting to experiment with argan oil, I think it's safe to say that it's a great multi-use product to have in your arsenal.  There are tons of different brands out there, at various price points, but as long as you're using a pure, 100% argan oil, I imagine you can expect similar results from any of them.  I've been really happy with this specific argan oil from Aura Cacia - it works well, is affordable and organic, and I'm quite taken with the packaging too.  A little goes a long way, but when I eventually run out, I can definitely see myself repurchasing it.

Have you tried argan oil?  If so, what's your favorite way to use it?

Once again, here's my referral link, in case you're new to Vitacost and want to save $10 off your first order.  No obligations, of course!

And, if you haven't entered yet, there's still time to enter my giveaway for a chance to win a free SoapStix portable handwash!  


        

3 comments

  1. I've read online suggestions that insist Argan Oil needs to be warmed for best results. The Aura Cacia instructions don't say anything. Any thoughts?
    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think warming any oil is supposed to help it penetrate the hair better. I haven't tried it, but I don't see any harm!

      Delete
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    Organic Canola Oil

    ReplyDelete