Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that accelerates the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface. This rapid turnover results in the thick, dry, and often itchy patches known as plaques. Many individuals explore plant-derived oils, such as Argan oil, which is extracted from the kernels of the Moroccan argan tree, to help manage the associated dryness, scaling, and inflammation.
Understanding Psoriasis and Argan Oil’s Key Components
Psoriasis is fundamentally an immune-mediated disorder where the immune system mistakenly signals skin cells to grow too quickly, alongside an underlying inflammatory response. Normal skin cells mature and shed over approximately a month, but in psoriatic skin, this process is dramatically sped up to occur in just three to five days. This hyperproliferation of keratinocytes, combined with chronic inflammation, is what produces the characteristic raised, silvery, and scaly plaques.
Argan oil is highly valued for its unique chemical makeup, which includes a high percentage of beneficial lipids and antioxidants. The oil consists of approximately 80% unsaturated fatty acids, with oleic acid (an omega-9) and linoleic acid (an omega-6) being the most abundant. Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fat that the human body cannot synthesize and must be obtained externally, making it an important component for skin barrier health.
The oil also contains significant levels of fat-soluble compounds, notably a high concentration of Vitamin E, primarily in the form of gamma-tocopherol. This potent antioxidant is present in higher amounts in Argan oil than in common oils like olive oil. Furthermore, it contains squalene, a naturally occurring compound that mimics the skin’s own sebum, along with various phytosterols and polyphenols.
Scientific Rationale for Skin Soothing Effects
The potential benefits of Argan oil for managing psoriasis symptoms stem directly from its lipid and antioxidant profile, which addresses inflammation and skin barrier dysfunction. The high content of oleic and linoleic acids provides powerful emollient properties, helping to restore the impaired skin barrier function often seen in psoriatic skin. Applying the oil topically can reduce transepidermal water loss, effectively moisturizing the dry, cracked plaques and alleviating the associated discomfort and flakiness.
The oil’s therapeutic value is further supported by its significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, largely attributed to its wealth of gamma-tocopherol and polyphenols. These compounds work to neutralize free radicals and combat oxidative stress, which is elevated in chronic inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis. Research suggests these antioxidant molecules may interfere with the inflammatory cascade, helping to reduce the redness and swelling characteristic of active plaques.
The linoleic acid specifically plays a role in the structural integrity of the skin’s outermost layer, the stratum corneum. This fatty acid is a precursor to ceramides, which are lipid molecules that form the “cement” between skin cells, thereby strengthening the skin’s defense mechanism. By helping to rebuild this lipid matrix, Argan oil may reduce the irritation and vulnerability of the skin to external triggers.
It is important to note that while the mechanisms are scientifically plausible, the current body of evidence lacks large-scale human clinical trials specifically investigating Argan oil as a standalone treatment for this condition. Most evidence relies on its established effects on general skin inflammation, barrier repair, and antioxidant benefits. Argan oil is best considered a supportive topical agent, not a replacement for prescribed medical therapies.
Safe Application and Usage Guidelines
When incorporating Argan oil into a routine for skin conditions, use a pure, cold-pressed product to ensure maximum potency. The oil should be stored in a cool, dark place, ideally in a dark glass bottle, as light and heat can degrade its beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants, causing it to go rancid. Proper storage helps maintain its quality.
Before applying the oil broadly, a patch test is highly recommended, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or existing nut allergies. To perform this, apply a small, pea-sized amount of the pure oil to a discreet area like the inner forearm. Monitor the area for 24 to 48 hours for any signs of adverse reactions, such as redness, itching, swelling, or irritation.
For use on psoriatic plaques, the oil can be applied directly to the affected areas once or twice daily, or as needed, to relieve dryness and scaling. It is generally safe to use Argan oil alongside prescription medications, but always discuss any new additions to your skincare regimen with a dermatologist. If symptoms worsen, or if no improvement is observed after several weeks of consistent use, professional medical advice should be sought.