In recent years, a number of natural beauty products from Morocco have become more popular in the West.
These plant and mineral-based items have been used for centuries, as skin conditioners and moisturizers. Now, they’re readily available online, so women everywhere can use them. They offer a good alternative to chemical-based cosmetics that may contain potentially dangerous compounds, such as parabens.
Parabens are often added to conventional beauty products. They act as preservatives. However, they also mimic the female hormone estrogen. So there’s growing concern they could fuel a hormone-dependent malignancy.
Beauty Products from Morocco
Morocco is an exotic land of that sits on the North African coast. This country sits at a crossroads, bordering both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Its interior is mountainous and remote, so certain naturally occurring substances are found there, but nowhere else in the world.
One of these is Argan oil. This is a precious oil derived from a tree that grows only in certain parts of Morocco. Until recently, it wasn’t widely known outside of that country. But, lately, word has gotten out.
Sometimes referred to as “liquid gold,” this oil is considered good for smoothing aging skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. It’s also prized for its reputed ability to clear up stubborn and unsightly skin conditions, such as eczema.
Since many people with acne have oily skin, it seems ironic that you could attack this problem with more oil. However, there are anecdotal reports of a reduction in outbreaks, following the application of argan oil.
Other popular uses for argan oil include hair conditioning, as well as a natural and effective treatment for stretch marks and dark circles under the eyes.
Increased production and export of argan oil has led to improvements in the lives of some Moroccans. The certified organic oil shown here is from Now Solutions, a company I buy from often.
Benefits of Moroccan Red Clay
Clay facials are becoming extremely popular as people “rediscover” this old beauty trick. Charged with negative ions, clay is believed to have the ability to draw positively charged toxins out of our skin. It also has powerful exfoliating action. I love what clay, a volcanic ash, does to my own skin. I use it periodically for deep cleansing. I put a thin layer on, and wait about 10 minutes before rinsing it off. My skin feels so soft afterwards.
Moroccan red clay is preferred by some women with more sensitive skin because it appears to be more gentle in its action than green clay.
The red clay shown above is extremely economical, and should last a long time. A little goes a long way.
Moroccan Black Soap Benefits
This Moroccan Black Soap is made from a hydrating black olive oil complex and is infused with eucalyptus essential oil. It contains no artificial additives or ingredients. This mix is designed to deep clean and very gently exfoliate your skin. Black soap is often used with a special exfoliating glove. This soap is available online at Walgreens. It is not sold in stores.
