argan oil for hair

Argan Oil For Hair: All The Benefits And How To Use It

Argan oil is a lightweight plant oil rich in vitamin E and fatty acids that helps soften hair, reduce frizz, boost shine, and protect against dryness and breakage. Use 1–6 drops on damp mid-lengths and ends as a leave-in, or apply a little more as a pre-wash mask. Start small and adjust to your hair type.

What Is Argan Oil?

Argan oil comes from the kernels of the argan tree (Argania spinosa), native to Morocco. It’s commonly used in hair products because it absorbs well, feels less greasy than many oils, and helps improve the look and feel of dry or damaged strands.

You’ll see argan oil in serums, masks, shampoos, conditioners, and pure bottled oil. Pure argan oil can also be used on its own, as long as you apply the right amount for your hair.

Argan Oil for Hair: All the Benefits and How to Use It

How Argan Oil Is Made

Traditional argan oil production involves collecting the fruit, removing the pulp, cracking the nuts, and pressing the kernels to release oil. Today, most cosmetic argan oil is produced with modern presses to improve consistency and hygiene.

Cold-Pressed vs. Other Extraction Methods

Cold-pressed (mechanically pressed) argan oil is the option most people look for in hair care because it avoids harsh solvents. Solvent-based extraction can increase yield, but it’s less common for high-quality cosmetic oils.

Why Argan Oil Works Well For Hair

Argan oil’s fatty acids help reduce moisture loss, while vitamin E and antioxidants support a healthier-looking hair surface. The result is usually more softness and shine, with less roughness and flyaways—especially when hair is dry, colored, or heat-styled.

Argan Oil for Hair: All the Benefits and How to Use It

Benefits Of Argan Oil For Hair

Results vary by hair type and how you use it, but these are the most common, practical benefits.

  • Softens dry hair and improves manageability.
  • Helps reduce frizz and flyaways by smoothing the cuticle.
  • Adds shine and helps dull hair look healthier.
  • Supports breakage prevention by reducing dryness and friction.
  • Helps protect hair from heat styling when used lightly on mid-lengths and ends.
  • Can soothe a dry, tight-feeling scalp when massaged in small amounts.
  • Pairs well with color-treated hair by keeping lengths hydrated and less rough.

How To Use Argan Oil On Hair

The biggest mistake is using too much. Start with a few drops, spread it well, and add more only if your hair still feels dry.

1) Leave-In Serum (Fastest Option)

  • Wash and towel-dry your hair so it’s damp, not dripping.
  • Warm 1–3 drops (fine hair) or 3–6 drops (thick/curly hair) between your palms.
  • Apply from mid-lengths to ends. Avoid the roots if your scalp gets oily.
  • Comb through with fingers or a wide-tooth comb for even distribution.

2) Pre-Wash Mask (For Very Dry Or Damaged Hair)

  • Apply a slightly larger amount to dry hair, focusing on ends.
  • Leave for 30–60 minutes (or overnight if your hair tolerates oils well).
  • Shampoo thoroughly, then condition as usual.

3) Scalp Massage (For Dry Scalp Comfort)

  • Use a few drops only. Massage into the scalp for 2–3 minutes.
  • Leave for 20–30 minutes, then wash out.
  • If you’re prone to buildup or oily roots, keep this occasional.

4) Mix With Conditioner Or Mask

If pure oil feels heavy, mix 1–2 drops into your conditioner or hair mask in your palm. This is an easy way to get the smoothing effect without over-applying oil.

Argan Oil for Hair: All the Benefits and How to Use It

Can Argan Oil Be Used On Hair Every Day?

It can, but daily use isn’t necessary for most people. If your hair is fine, gets oily quickly, or you use a lot of styling products, daily argan oil may cause heaviness over time.

A practical routine is 2–4 times per week as a leave-in on ends, then a pre-wash mask when hair feels rough or overly dry. If your hair looks limp, reduce the amount or apply less often.

Argan Oil for Hair: All the Benefits and How to Use It

Does Argan Oil Help Hair Grow?

Argan oil isn’t a proven hair-growth stimulant. What it can do is support the scalp’s comfort and reduce breakage, which helps you retain length over time. If your goal is faster growth, focus on scalp health, gentle handling, and nutrition—then use argan oil to protect the lengths you already have.

Argan Oil for Hair: All the Benefits and How to Use It

How To Choose A Good Argan Oil

  • Look for “100% argan oil” or “Argania spinosa kernel oil” high on the ingredient list.
  • Prefer cold-pressed oil in a dark glass bottle to protect it from light.
  • Avoid products that rely heavily on fragrance or feel overly silicone-heavy if you want a more natural finish.
  • Store it away from heat and sunlight to slow oxidation.

Safety Tips And Common Mistakes

  • Patch-test if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
  • Use less than you think you need—especially on fine hair.
  • Keep oil away from the scalp if you struggle with oily roots or buildup.
  • If you heat-style, use a dedicated heat protectant too; argan oil can help, but it’s not a complete shield on its own.

FAQ

Can I use argan oil on dry hair?

Yes. Use 1–2 drops to tame frizz and add shine, then stop. Dry application is easiest to overdo, so keep it light.

Will argan oil make my hair greasy?

It can if you use too much or apply it near the roots. Start with a few drops and focus on mid-lengths and ends.

Is argan oil good for curly hair?

Often, yes. Curly and coily hair tends to be drier, so it usually benefits from a slightly higher amount and more frequent use.

Can I leave argan oil in overnight?

You can, especially as a pre-wash mask. If you wake up with heavy, flat hair, shorten the time or reduce the amount.