Pure Argan Oil has been a Key element of the Beauty Rituals of Native Moroccan Women for Centuries. It’s no secret that we love argan oil. Who knew (well, we kind of did) that the little argan nut could be mighty liquid gold due to all its beautiful skin and hair magic?!
Argan oil, called liquid gold, is one of the most popular oils in the world and the most expensive vegetable oil. Chances are, you’ve probably seen argan oil while browsing the beauty aisle at the drug store. And it’s for a good reason, too. The honey-colored oil, which derives from a plant native to Morocco, seems to do it all - like keeping your skin moisturized and your hair silky smooth.
You may be familiar with what social media influencers have said about it, but what’s the actual science behind and health benefits of using this so-called “liquid gold”? Dermatologist Shilpi Khetarpal, MD, breaks down what we know about argan oil and how you can work it into your beauty routine.
Although native to Morocco, argan oil is now used across the globe for a variety of culinary, cosmetic and medicinal applications. This article explains some of the most prominent health benefits and uses of argan oil.
What is Argan Oil?
Derived from the nuts of the argan tree, argan oil has been used for centuries in many ways. The argania spinosa (argan) tree provides day-to-day living essentials in its native Morocco. Applications of the tree (and its oil) range anywhere from food to shelter from the sun in the arid Moroccan landscape.
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Its popularity partially started in the world of cooking, often used in Moroccan-style recipes as a salad dressing. It contains a number of unsaturated and saturated fatty acids, as well as other compounds like polyphenols, squalene and triterpene alcohol. You can recognize argan oil by its golden color and rich consistency.
The Argan Tree
Argania spinosa, also called iron argan or argan tree, belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It is prevalent in southwestern Morocco, around Essaouira, Agadir, Marrakech, Tiznit, and Taroudant and in the Negev Desert in Israel [1]. Argan forests protect the Earth’s surface from the effects of heavy rains and wind erosion. The argan tree adapts very well to difficult environmental conditions related to drought.
In 1998, this species was included on the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) list of protected biospheres [1,2]. The argan tree is a long-living, evergreen, thorny tree with a twisted, gnarled trunk, reaching a height of approximately 32.81 ft. It generally lives for about 150-200 years, although there are known cases of 400-year-old trees. It reaches full productivity only after fifty years. One tree can provide 1 L of oil per year. The fruits take one year to develop, ripening from June to July. They are yellow, resembling a plum, with flesh, a nut, and one to three fatty seeds inside. Black and dry fruits fall from trees [3,4].
Argan oil, extracted from the kernels of the argan fruit, is renowned for its high concentration of vital unsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic and linoleic acids, which have both health and nutritional advantages [5]. Beyond its oil, the argan tree plays a crucial role in sustainable development through the utilization of its byproducts.
For example, the oil extraction process produces argan pulp and argan press cake (APC), which are used in a variety of applications. APC is a residue abundant in phenolic compounds, fatty acids, and proteins and is used in cosmetic formulations, animal feed supplements, and cell proliferation enhancement [6].
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Nutritional Composition
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.
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).
The chemical composition of most vegetable oils has a beneficial effect on the human body. Valuable properties of argan oil stem from its polyphenols, squalene, and tocopherols [15,16]. Glycerides constitute 99% of argan oil, of which 95% are triglycerides, comprised of oleic acid (43-49%), linoleic acid (29-36%), and trace amounts of linolenic acid.
Oleic acid supports the transport of active ingredients naturally present in argan oil into the skin. There are also small amounts of saturated fatty acids in triglycerides. These acids are stearic (4-7%) and palmitic (11-15%). Unsaturated fatty acids are involved in several metabolic pathways, including chronic inflammation.
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Oleic acid is directly responsible for lowering blood pressure by regulating the structure of lipid membranes and inhibiting the activity of gelatinase A (MMP-2), an enzyme involved in the proliferation of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease [14,17]. Other organic compounds found in argan oil include polyphenols, sterols, carotenes, triterpene alcohols, and tocopherols. This is a group of anti-carcinogenic compounds. These compounds are part of the unsaponifiable fraction of argan oil, which constitutes only 1%.
Derivatives of phenols present in argan oil include ferulic, caffeic, syringic, p-hydroxybenzoic, and vanilla acids; tyrosol; oleuropein; epicatechin; catechin; and catechol [4]. Polyphenols are very valuable natural products that have antioxidant properties. They protect cells against damage caused by free radicals. They can also prevent atherosclerosis, cancer progression, and the development of pathogens.
Sterols present in argan oil constitute 20% of the unsaponifiable fraction. There are four sterols in argan oil: two major ones, spinasterol (44%) and dihydrospinasterol (shotenol, 48%), and two minor ones, avenasterol and 8,22-stigmastadien-3β-ol. These sterols have a regenerating effect on the epidermis [4].
Triterpene alcohols constitute 20% of the unsaponifiable fraction of argan oil. Among the alcohols identified were tirukallol (27.9%), which relieves allergy symptoms, as well as butyrospermol (18.1%), β-amyrin (27.3%), lupeol (7.1%), and 24-methylcycloartanol (4.5%). Carotenoids are represented by yellow xanthophylls that bind and transport oxygen. They can protect the skin against the harmful effects of solar radiation.
Argan oil is rich in tocopherol in the amount of 600-700 mg/kg. It is a strong antioxidant and the most efficient free radical scavenger. Argan oil contains 69% γ-tocopherol. It has been shown that γ-tocopherol is more effective than α-tocopherol in removing nitrogen-free radicals, as well as in preventing the proliferation of cancer cells.
γ-tocopherol and its metabolite γ-carboxyethyl-hydroxychroman have an inhibitory effect on cyclooxygenase-2 isoenzyme (COX-2), which is activated during an inflammatory reaction. Inhibition of COX-2 leads to a reduction in symptoms of inflammation. Thanks to the presence of tocopherols, phenolic compounds, and carotenoids, argan oil protects the skin against the harmful effects of external factors and, above all, against free radicals, making it a potential ingredient in after-sun cosmetic products.
It has a soothing effect on skin that is irritated and damaged by solar radiation. Vitamin E has a beneficial effect on the immune system. The only hydrocarbon present in argan oil is squalene, and its content is approximately 0.3%. This compound helps remove xenobiotics from the body and lowers cholesterol levels.
There are differences in the chemical composition of argan oil, which depend on the geographical origin of the argan seeds as well as the methods of producing the oil. Argan oil obtained by cold pressing has the strongest antioxidant properties. Thermal treatment may reduce the anti-radical properties of argan oil obtained traditionally [25,26].
Benefits of Argan Oil
While it comes from a tiny kernel, argan oil packs a punch with what it can do for you. “The fatty acids in it, like linoleic and oleic acids, are very hydrating,” says Dr. Khetarpal. It also contains vitamin E and antioxidants that can prevent breakage and damage from free radicals.
Research on argan oil has proven that its consumption has a beneficial effect on the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, atherosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer due to its cytotoxic, antiproliferative, and antioxidant activities.
Here’s how argan oil can be beneficial for your hair and skin:
For Skin
- Hydrates Your Skin: Especially if you’re prone to dry skin, this silky oil can give it some much-needed moisture, thanks to its vitamin E and fatty acids. Research shows argan oil protects the skin’s barrier and improves overall texture.
- May Help Treat Wounds: Applying argan oil may also benefit any mild scrapes and scratches. A 2017 review suggests that since argan oil has anti-inflammatory properties, it may help with irritated burns and wounds.
- May Help with Anti-Aging: Could argan oil be the “Fountain of Youth,” too? More research needs to be done to know for sure. But some studies suggest that this oil may have some anti-aging properties by increasing the elasticity of the skin.
- 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. However, current research indicates that argan oil does contain several antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may be why it seems to treat skin tissue.
- May Promote Wound Healing: Argan oil may accelerate the wound healing process. That said, human research is needed.
- 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.
- Sometimes Used to Treat Acne: Some sources claim argan oil to be an effective treatment for acne, although no rigorous scientific research supports this. However, it may reduce redness and soothe irritation caused by acne.
For Hair
- Minimizes Frizz: Everyone wants silky, smooth hair - minus the greasy residue. That’s why argan oil has become such a trendy choice for many: It adds a hydrating boost to calm frizz, while staying light on your strands.
- Protects Against Heat and Styling Damage: You may depend on your trusty straightener and hair dryer, but it’s important to have a shield against any intense styling you’re doing. It turns out, argan oil can be a natural remedy for that. A 2013 study even found that argan oil improved the quality of hair that was intensely colored or dyed.
- May Moisturize Skin and Hair: Some research indicates the fatty acids in argan oil may support healthy, hydrated skin and reduce hair damage.
Other Health Benefits
- May Boost Heart Health: Argan oil is a rich source of oleic acid, which is a monounsaturated, omega-9 fat (1). Argan oil’s fatty acids and antioxidants may help reduce heart disease risk, though more research is needed.
- May Have Benefits for Diabetes: Some early animal research indicates argan oil may help prevent diabetes. However, such results do not necessarily imply that the same effects would be seen in humans. Therefore, human research is needed.
- 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.
How to Use Argan Oil
As argan oil has become increasingly popular, it’s easier than ever to add it to your health and beauty routine.
For Skin
Argan oil is usually used topically in its pure form - but also frequently included in cosmetic products like lotions and skin creams. While it can be applied directly to your skin, it may be best to start with a very small amount to ensure that you won’t have any adverse reactions.
For Hair
You can apply argan oil directly to damp or dry hair to improve moisture, reduce breakage, or reduce frizz. It is also sometimes included in shampoos or conditioners. If it’s your first time using it, start with a small amount to see how your hair responds. If you have naturally oily roots, apply argan only to the ends of your hair to avoid greasy-looking hair.
For Cooking
If you’re interested in using argan oil with food, look for varieties specifically marketed for cooking, or make sure you’re buying 100% pure argan oil. Argan oil marketed for cosmetic purposes may be mixed with other ingredients that you shouldn’t ingest.
Traditionally, argan oil is used for dipping bread or drizzling on couscous or vegetables. It can also be lightly heated, but it is not appropriate for high-heat dishes as it can easily burn.
Here are some ways you can add argan oil to your daily diet:
- Make amlu (amlou), a Moroccan dip made with roasted, ground almonds, honey, and argan oil.
- Make salad dressing with the oil.
- Include argan oil in hummus.
- Drizzle it on top of grilled fish.
- Spread argan oil on bread.
- Mix it into rice or couscous.
Argan Oil Uses
Whether you choose to dilute it or not, argan oil is a seriously versatile ingredient and we are total super fans. Its your skin-but-better-hydration powers that are one of the main reasons argan oil is found in so many products - and exactly why we feature it in many of our formulas.
Here are some specific ways to incorporate argan oil into your beauty and self-care routines:
- Makeup Remover: Argan oil is considered a dry oil, which makes it completely non-greasy after it’s been rubbed into skin. You can use anti-aging argan oil as a makeup remover because it grabs onto makeup, won’t leave skin greasy, and moisturizes in the process.
- Skin Luminizer: Argan oil makes a fantastic natural skin luminizer, especially if you’re looking for something shimmer-free. Its non-greasy texture still has the ability to catch and reflect light once absorbed into skin, for a totally natural glow that makes your skin look undeniably healthy and supple.
- Healthier Scalp and Frizz Tamer: Argan oil promotes collagen production for fortified hair growth and fights against breakage. This organic oil also tames frizz in a pinch! Since argan oil is super lightweight and non-greasy, it’s perfect for applying to dry or frizzy strands.
- Stretch Mark Minimizer: To help ease the stretching of your skin, you’ll need to keep it VERY well moisturized. Some say that keeping dry skin hydrated and softened can minimize the severity of stretch marks or “striae”, as they rapidly form on distended skin.
- Powder-to-Cream Blush: You can use argan oil with powder blush to create a creamier blush formula. Simply choose your signature shade, and start by carving out a small piece from the blush pan. Gently break it apart with the bottom of a makeup brush until it has become a fine powder, then mix in a small dab of argan oil. Using your fingers, apply to cheeks and blend gently.
- Carrier Oil: Argan oil is full of essential fatty acids and minerals, as well as carotenes and squalene, so it will help to bolster your skin’s defensive barrier while it moisturizes and conditions your skin. Whatever amount of carrier oil you’re using, only 2% volume should be essential oil.
- DIY Scrub Base: Since it’s good for all skin types, argan oil is the perfect choice for your DIY body scrub moisture base.
- Cuticle Treatment: Rubbing a few drops of argan oil into cuticles and hands is an easy way to restore dry skin. Massage the oil into your cuticles for a couple minutes until it’s absorbed, to soften hard cuticles and skin around the nail.
- Lip Softener: Dab a drop of argan oil onto lips for enhanced moisture and soft, supple skin. Perfect as part of a post-lip scrub routine, or even pre-lipstick or lip gloss. Just be sure to blend gently with your fingers until it has been absorbed into lips.
- Shaving Protectant: Argan oil feeds the skin with fatty acids and vitamin E, which maintain the suppleness of our largest organ - our skin! Providing a slicker surface for our razor, it can also help reduce drag and therefore lower your risk of razor burn. This miracle oil can also act as a post-shave moisturizing treatment.
- Sunscreen Primer: Make thick or chalky sunscreens easy to spread by priming skin with a few drops of liquid argan oil gold. As one of our top argan oil uses this will provide a smoother surface compatible with both your skin and the sunscreen.
- PM Hand Treatment: Lock in your layer of hand cream with conditioning argan oil, to keep hand moisture preserved overnight.
- Baby-Soft Bath: Add 1-2 tablespoons of argan oil into your morning or evening bath for deeper hydration and nourished skin.
- DIY Colored Eye Liner: Scrape a little powder eyeshadow onto a clean mixing surface beside a drop of argan oil. With an angled eye liner brush, begin mixing the two until you have a smooth, evenly pigmented paste.
- Oil Pulling: Argan oil works too. Oil pulling is suggested to improve bad breath, reduce harmful bacteria on the teeth and tongue, and condition the gums.
Whether you’re dealing with dry skin or skin sensitivities, using argan oil is your hot ticket to a glowing complexion.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 72 |
| Protein | Less than 1 gram |
| Fat | 8 grams |
| Carbohydrates | Less than 1 gram |
| Fiber | Less than 1 gram |
| Sugar | Less than 1 gram |
