Ingredient Spotlight: Argan Oil

Hair, Ingredient, Skin, - November 28, 2022

Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes

Summary: In this blog, we'll learn the ins and out of argan oil for hair, the argued benefits and how to use it...

Argan oil is a popular ingredient in many skin and hair care products, and for the latter has been touted as a natural moisturiser, gloss and shine inducer – Some refer to it as "liquid gold"! But, can you use Argan oil for hair growth and what does Argan oil do for skin? And, where does Argan oil even come from?

Well, Argan oil is derived from the native Moroccan Argan tree. Traditionally it’s actually consumed; eaten with breads and salads because of the health benefits it can bring (that’s right, it’s believed to serve our bodies inside and out!) But, how? What are the Argan oil benefits and how do you use it?

Argan Oil Contains Essential Fatty Acids & Vitamins

Argan Oil contains essential fatty acids that act as natural anti-inflammatories and have antioxidant properties. It primarily contains oleic and linoleic (Omega 6) acid, with linoleic acid making up over 33% of the oil, and oleic contributing to just under half. These acids can also be found in similar oils like avocado and olive.

These are considered healthy fats for the body, particularly when ingested. In addition, Argan Oil is packed with Vitamin E which is notorious for promoting the health and appearance of hair and skin. Vitamin E is also a known antioxidant as well.

Together, these vitamins and essential, healthy fatty acids are used in skin care products because they are thought to contribute to and promote the moisture content of the skin and improve its elasticity. Argan Oil can help make skin more dewy, supple and thus more youthful in appearance. It’s also considered a great product to help soothe and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

I have Oily/Combination skin. Will Argan Oil make my oily skin worse?

If you have oily skin, it can seem counter intuitive to apply more oil to it. Well, Argan Oil is actually thought to reduce sebum production, so can actually help out oily/combination skin! It’s also thought to possess a talent for unclogging pores too. However, as with all skin and hair care, it’s a matter of trial and error and working out what works for you. The best advice you can be given when it comes to considering your next hair and skin care products: try it and see!

If you’re exploring your options and hesitant over Argan Oil when it comes to your oily skin, Castor Oil is a more popular choice if you suffer with acne, pimples or greasy skin. Coconut Oil can also be a great alternative for dry skin. However, Argan Oil is targeted at all skin types because of its ability to help reduce the body over producing sebum on to the skin, but retains and promotes healthy hydration levels.

What Are The Argan Oil Benefits For Hair?

For hair care, Argan oil can boost the hydration of the scalp which reduces dryness. It can also diminish the effects of dandruff, and prevent it from developing. It’s also popularly used for taming frizzy, dry and/or split ends as the fatty acid content of Argan oil can help strengthen and smooth the hair strands.

If you’re wondering “What are the Argan oil benefits for hair?”, some sources claim that the high Vitamin E content in Argan Oil can positively influence the growth rate and strength of hair too. It is thought the antioxidant properties of Argan oil can boost hair follicle activity, promote cell regeneration and thus encourage hair growth and help build a stronger, healthier mane.

I’m sold! Where do I find Argan Oil?

You can find 100% Organic Argan Oil online from most reputable health and beauty stores.

But, how do you use it?

How To Use Argan Oil For Hair

Apply 8-10 drops of Argan Oil onto your hair/scalp and massage in using your fingertips. Dependent on the length or thickness of your hair, you may find you need more or less. Adjust accordingly.
Wrap your hair in a towel and allow the Argan Oil to do it’s work for anywhere between 10 minutes to a few hours. It’s even safe to sleep in Argan Oil if you choose to but it’s advisable to protect your pillow by sleeping on a towel.
Wash your hair as usual when you’re ready/in the morning and style as usual!

As mentioned above, there’s only one way to find out if Argan Oil is going to be your next skin saviour or hair hero: try it out and see!

Sources

Evolve Beauty

Healthline I

Healthline II

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Sarah Milton

A passionate content writer, with a specific interest in the science behind hair care. Having created content for several years, I’ve grown my knowledge exponentially in the science behind hair growth, quality and texture, and what ingredients our tresses need to thrive. When not in the office, I’m walking my dog along the beach or invested in a brilliant television drama.