Argan Oil Benefits for Skin and Hair: Uses and Safety

Argan oil is pressed from the kernels of the Moroccan argan tree. Most people use it on skin and hair, where its fatty acids can soften dryness and reduce frizz. A separate food-grade oil exists for cooking, but the two products are not interchangeable. Argan oil can be a pleasant addition to a routine; it is not a treatment for skin disease or hair loss.

Cosmetic and culinary argan oil

Cosmetic argan oil is made for external use and may contain fragrance or other added ingredients. Culinary argan oil is made from roasted kernels and has a nutty taste.

• •Never cook with or swallow a bottle sold for hair or skin.
• •Read the label for intended use, ingredients, manufacturer and expiry date.
• •As a food, argan oil is mainly unsaturated fat. The American Heart Association advises replacing saturated fats with unsaturated oils, but any oil is energy-dense. Familiar options such as olive oil, mustard or groundnut oil serve the same role in an Indian kitchen.

Argan oil for dry skin

Cleveland Clinic notes that argan oil's linoleic and oleic acids are hydrating and that it contains vitamin E. An oil mainly forms a thin layer that slows water loss from the skin.

How to use it

• •Apply two or three drops over damp skin or on top of your usual moisturiser.
• •The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a cream or ointment when skin feels dry; an oil can be an optional extra layer, not a replacement.
• •Keep it away from the eyes.

What the research shows

A 60-day trial in 60 postmenopausal women reported improved skin elasticity with dietary and topical argan oil. It was small and short, so it does not prove that argan oil prevents ageing, removes scars or treats eczema.

Acne-prone or oily skin

Some people tolerate a few drops; others find any oil adds to breakouts. Start small and stop if your skin worsens.

Argan oil for hair

A drop or two on the lengths and ends can reduce friction, tame frizz and add shine. More oil tends to look greasy rather than condition better.

• •Focus on dry ends rather than coating the scalp, especially if you have dandruff or an oily scalp.
• •Oil cannot permanently mend split ends; trimming and less heat styling help more.
• •Good clinical evidence does not show that argan oil regrows hair. For oils with more research on hair density, see our guide to rosemary oil for hair.

Hair loss has many causes, including illness, iron deficiency, thyroid problems and hormonal changes. Sudden, patchy or heavy shedding needs assessment; our guide on how to stop hair fall covers common causes.

Patch-test and know when to stop

Any cosmetic product can cause contact dermatitis, an itchy rash triggered by an ingredient. Before regular use:

1. 1.Apply a small amount to the inner forearm.
2. 2.Wait 24 to 48 hours.
3. 3.Skip the product if you notice redness, itching or swelling.

Stop using it if it burns or causes a rash. Seek urgent care for facial swelling or breathing difficulty. Do not apply oil to deep wounds, infected skin or a rash that is not healing.

Buying and storing argan oil

• •A short ingredient list makes it easier to know what you are using.
• •Store it closed, away from heat and direct light.
• •Discard oil that smells rancid.
• •A high price or "100% pure" claim does not prove quality, and no single oil treats acne, scars, wrinkles and hair loss at once.

Editorial sources

• •Cleveland Clinic: Skin and hair benefits of argan oil
• •PubMed: Dietary and cosmetic argan oil and postmenopausal skin elasticity
• •American Academy of Dermatology: Tips to relieve dry skin
• •NHS: Contact dermatitis
• •American Heart Association: Healthy cooking oils
• •MedlinePlus: Hair loss