What is Argan Oil?

Argan oil is extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, which grows in the sandy semi-desert soil in Morocco. Traditionally, this oil has been used as a dip for bread, as a dressing on couscous and salads, and it has also been used as a treatment for skin diseases. It contains high vitamin E (tocopherols), carotenes, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.

Depending on the extraction method, it may also be more resistant to oxidation than even olive oil (an oil renowned for its relative stability). In addition to its continuing popularity in skin creams and as a treatment for hair growth, argan oil has recently been researched for its reduction in cardiovascular disease risk factors.

Benefits of Argan Oil

Argan for Hair and Skin

Argan oil contains oleic acid, palmitic acid, and linoleic acid, all of which are beneficial for the skin. It is also a good source of vitamin E (tocopherols) as well as other antioxidants, such as ferulic acid. Because of this, argan oil has gained popularity in cosmetic uses to benefit dry skin and prevent the visible signs of aging caused by free-radical damage. Interestingly, these results could likely also be achieved by ingestion instead of topical use, with the added benefit of cardioprotective effects.

Argan is also helpful for hair growth. Its rich fatty acid content helps moisturize the scalp and the hair shaft. Its rich antioxidants can promote a healthy scalp and offer some antifungal properties. There is some emerging evidence that it could also help to prevent damage as a result of heat styling or hair colouring due to its rich content of linoleic and oleic acids.

Argan Oil and Cardiovascular Disease

It has become generally accepted in the literature that argan reduces cardiovascular disease risk, and that it can be used to prevent risk factors for atherosclerosis. Studies examining the effects of supplementation found that people taking this oil had higher vitamin E levels, approximately 10% lower total and LDL (bad) cholesterol, and nearly 12% lowered triglycerides. In Type II diabetics with dyslipidemia, it was also found to have a lasting antioxidant effects that protected against further oxidation of fats in the body even after supplementation had been ceased. The alteration of blood lipid profiles and the increase in antioxidant status both work together to help prevent atherosclerosis and resulting cardiovascular disease.

How Do I Take Argan Oil?

Argan is available by itself or in combination with several supplements. It can also be found in cosmetic products and skin creams. It can be used in its pure form to moisturize both hair and skin topically. There is no recommended dose for topical use. 

The current recommended dose for ingestion is 1-2 Tablespoons daily.

Important Information

This oil is high in oleic acid, which is comedogenic and may clog the pores when used topically. There is no available safety information for use during pregnancy and lactation, so oral supplementation should be avoided.

Argan Oil FAQs

What is Argan Oil?

This is an oil extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, which is found in Morocco. The oil is most often used topically to promote hair and skin health, but can also be taken orally.

How does Argan Oil work?

The oil is high in vitamin E and antioxidants like ferulic acid. Because of its high antioxidants and fatty acids, the oil is beneficial for encouraging hair growth and preventing skin dryness.

How to use Argan on hair?

You can use this oil for hair as a hair mask to moisturize and strengthen the hair shaft. Simply massage up to 10 drops of the oil into your hair and let it sit for at least an hour (or overnight). The next morning, shampoo and condition your hair as you normally would, and style.

How to use Argan Oil on skin?

Argan can be used topically as a skin moisturizer.

Where to buy Argan Oil?

You can find the oil at most health food stores.