Argan oil, often referred to as "liquid gold," has become a staple in hair care routines worldwide. This naturally occurring plant oil is derived from the kernels of the fruit of the argan tree.
Although native to Morocco, argan oil is now used across the globe for a variety of culinary, cosmetic and medicinal applications. Argan trees grow and tenaciously survive in semi-desert areas of the Mediterranean.
The deep roots and small leaves of the argan tree allow it to resist winds and water loss, resulting in a nut with a unique oil profile. Pure argan oil is a rare and precious oil that is harvested and extracted from the nut of the argan tree.
For centuries, women across the Mediterranean have used argan oil in their beauty regimen for vibrant, healthy-looking skin and hair. At Kenvue, our focus is on creating skin and beauty products that are formulated with high-quality ingredients, and one of those ingredients is argan oil of Morocco, which is found in our argan oil shampoos, conditioners, hair oils, body washes and lotions. But first, what is argan oil? Native to Morocco, argan oil is derived from the kernels found within the argan nut.
The sweet, nutty flavor is great to add to recipes - and the nutrition is great for your health. But using beauty products with argan oil can also act as a one-stop shop to help improve the health, look and feel of both your hair and skin.
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Nutritional Composition of Argan Oil
Argan oil is primarily comprised of fatty acids and a variety of phenolic compounds. The majority of the fat content of argan oil comes from oleic and linoleic acid (1). Approximately 29-36% of the fatty acid content of argan oil comes from linoleic acid, or omega-6, making it a good source of this essential nutrient (1). Oleic acid, though not essential, makes up 43-49% of the fatty acid composition of argan oil and is also a very healthy fat.
This is Why I Use Argan Oil for Hair | Is Argan Oil Liquid Gold?
Found in olive oil as well, oleic acid is renowned for its positive impact on heart health (1, 2). Additionally, argan oil is a rich source of vitamin E, which is required for healthy skin, hair and eyes. This vitamin also has powerful antioxidant properties (1). Argan oil has been a culinary staple in Morocco for centuries - not only because of its subtle, nutty flavor but also its wide array of potential health benefits. This article explains 12 of the most prominent health benefits and uses of argan oil.
Benefits of Argan Oil
1. Contains Essential Nutrients
Argan oil provides a good source of linoleic and oleic fatty acids, two fats known to support good health. It also boasts high levels of vitamin E.
2. Has Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The various phenolic compounds in argan oil are likely responsible for most of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities. Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, or tocopherol, a fat-soluble vitamin that serves as a potent antioxidant to reduce the damaging effects of free radicals (1). Other compounds present in argan oil, such as CoQ10, melatonin and plant sterols, also play a role in its antioxidant capacity (3, 4, 5). Multiple compounds in argan oil may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, though more research is needed.
3. May Boost Heart Health
Argan oil is a rich source of oleic acid, which is a monounsaturated, omega-9 fat (1). Oleic acid is also present in several other foods, including avocado and olive oils, and is often credited with heart-protective effects (2, 8). Argan oil’s fatty acids and antioxidants may help reduce heart disease risk, though more research is needed.
Read also: Hair and Skin Benefits of Argan Oil
4. May Have Benefits for Diabetes
Some early animal research indicates argan oil may help prevent diabetes. Some animal studies indicate argan oil may reduce blood sugar and insulin resistance to help prevent diabetes. That said, human studies are lacking.
5. May Have Anticancer Effects
Argan oil may slow the growth and reproduction of certain cancer cells. Some test-tube studies revealed potential cancer-fighting effects of argan oil, though more studies are needed.
6. May Reduce Signs of Skin Aging
Argan oil has quickly become a popular ingredient for many skin care products. A few small studies indicate that argan oil may be effective at reducing signs of aging, either when ingested or applied directly to your skin.
7. May Treat Some Skin Conditions
Argan oil has been a popular home remedy for treating inflammatory skin conditions for decades - especially in North Africa, where argan trees originate. While argan oil has been traditionally used to treat skin infections, there is limited evidence to support this. That said, anti-inflammatory compounds may benefit skin tissue.
8. May Promote Wound Healing
Argan oil may accelerate the wound healing process. In one animal study, argan oil applied to burn wounds accelerated healing. However, human research is needed.
Read also: Healthier Beard with Argan Oil
9. May Moisturize Skin and Hair
The oleic and linoleic acids that make up the majority of argan oil’s fat content are vital nutrients for maintaining healthy skin and hair (1, 20). Argan oil is popularly used to moisturize skin and hair. Some research indicates the fatty acids in argan oil may support healthy, hydrated skin and reduce hair damage.
10. Often Used to Treat and Prevent Stretch Marks
Argan oil is frequently used to prevent and reduce stretch marks, although no research has been conducted to prove its efficacy. Argan oil is often used as a remedy for treating stretch marks, although no scientific data supports this.
11. Sometimes Used to Treat Acne
Some sources claim argan oil to be an effective treatment for acne, although no rigorous scientific research supports this. Though some people claim that argan oil is effective for treating acne, no studies support this. However, it may reduce redness and soothe irritation caused by acne.
12. Easy to Add to Your Routine
As argan oil has become increasingly popular, it’s easier than ever to add it to your health and beauty routine. Because of its recent rise in popularity, argan oil is widely available and easy to use for skin, hair and food.
Argan Oil for Hair
Argan oil offers numerous benefits for hair, making it a must-have in your hair care routine. The rich concentration of essential fatty acids and vitamin E provides deep hydration, making hair soft and manageable. It also strengthens hair strands, reducing breakage and promoting overall hair health.
Benefits of Argan Oil for Hair:
- Hydration: Provides deep moisture to keep hair soft and manageable.
- Strength: Strengthens hair strands, reducing breakage.
- Shine: Adds a natural shine, making hair look healthier.
- Frizz Control: Helps to tame frizz and flyaways.
Here are some specific ways argan oil can benefit your hair:
- Protect against damage and frizz: Hair is primarily made of keratin, a combination of proteins that helps to keep your hair healthy and strong. But things like the sun, heat styling and bleaching can damage the keratin and cause hair breakage and damage. A product like the OGX® Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Penetrating Oil is ideal for all hair types and helps seal in nutrients and shine. The rich hair oil helps penetrate the hair shaft while renewing and softening hair and also helps improve hair strength and elasticity.
- Improve scalp health and hair strength: Hair products like OGX® Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo and OGX® Argan Oil of Morocco Conditioner help to strengthen your strands and visibly repair damage after first use.
How to Use Argan Oil on Hair
To get the most out of argan oil, start with clean, damp hair. Apply a small amount of oil to your palms and rub them together to warm the oil slightly. Work the oil through your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Avoid the roots to prevent greasiness. You can use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the oil evenly.
For an intensive treatment, apply a generous amount of argan oil to your hair from roots to tips. Massage it in thoroughly, then cover your hair with a shower cap or towel. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it out with shampoo.
Argan Oil as an Overnight Treatment
Yes, applying argan oil overnight can be a great way to give your hair a deep conditioning treatment. Massage a small amount into your hair, focusing on the ends, and cover your hair with a silk or satin scarf. This method allows the oil to penetrate deeply, providing intense hydration and repair while you sleep. In the morning, wash your hair as usual.
Does Argan Oil Promote Hair Growth?
While argan oil is known for its numerous benefits for hair health, there is limited scientific evidence that it directly promotes hair growth. Argan oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and fatty acids, which can improve overall hair health and reduce damage, potentially creating a healthier environment for hair growth.
Argan Oil for Skin
Argan oil isn’t just good for your hair - it’s also good for your skin. The fatty acids and vitamin E provide moisturizing benefits that can help prevent dry skin, keep the skin’s moisture barrier and improve overall texture. With the OGX® Extra Strength Radiant Glow + Argan Oil of Morocco Body Wash, you can cleanse your skin and restore moisture - and it’s formulated without any parabens and sulfated surfactants.
Here’s a summary of the benefits:
- Hydrates skin
- Prevents dry skin
- Maintains skin’s moisture barrier
- Improves skin texture
How Often to Use Argan Oil on Hair
Yes, you can use argan oil on your hair daily, but moderation is key. For those with thick or curly hair, daily application can help maintain hydration and manageability. However, if you have fine or oily hair, using argan oil every day might make your hair appear greasy. It's best to start with a small amount and adjust based on how your hair responds.
Apply a few drops of argan oil to damp hair from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the roots. Argan oil hydrates, strengthens, and adds shine to hair while controlling frizz. Use argan oil 2-3 times a week for dry or damaged hair.
Renewing and Strengthening with Argan Oil
Mend split ends and tame flyaway frizz with this argan oil of Morocco lightweight healing dry oil spray. Ideal for all hair types, this anti-frizz oil mist renews, strengthens and softens strands.
Mend split ends and eliminate frizz with OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Weightless Healing Dry Oil Spray. Ideal for all hair textures, moisture levels and types, the hair-smoothing oil mist helps tame flyaways. Formulated with a hydrating blend of rich cold-pressed Moroccan argan oil, it helps leave hair feeling smooth, soft and shiny. Lightweight hair mist also helps to penetrate the hair shaft for hair that looks and feels absolutely radiant. Plus, the citrus-fresh, floral-green and woody scent makes curly hair care an all-around sensory experience and leaves locks with an irresistibly good smell. Paraben-free with sulfate-free surfactants, this anti-frizz dry oil is gentle on hair while helping improve strength and elasticity.
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