Argan Oil vs. Coconut Oil

From olive to jojoba to grapeseed and rosehip, oils have a longstanding reputation as nature’s proprietary serums. But as we continue to tap into the benefits of these holistic wellness essentials, we can’t help but notice a few star players among the pack. Two oils that are quickly earning their place in our regular rotation are argan oil and coconut oil. Not only do these naturally nourishing oils have a long history as beautifying elixirs, but they’re often key ingredients in a variety of beauty (and even pantry) staples. Here’s a closer look at these two standouts.

All About Argan Oil

Native to Morocco’s Haha Coast where it was used by the Phoenicians for healing and beauty regimens, argan oil dates as far back as 600 BCE. The oil is extracted from the kernels of the argan tree and rich in vitamins A, C and E, as well antioxidants, linoleic acid, and omega-6 fatty acids. Though attempts were made to introduce this wonder oil throughout the world, it wasn’t until the 1990s that its benefits were discovered globally and efforts were made to increase oil production.

Argan Oil for Skin

If you’re not sure how to use argan oil, skincare is a good starting point. The oil is fortified with nourishing components like fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants that can promote glowing skin and serve as a holistic remedy for soothing irritation, protecting against stretch marks, and restoring balance to acne-prone skin.*

Argan Oil Products for Skin

Put your best face forward with these argan oil-powered skincare essentials.

Acure Moroccan Argan Oil

A skin serum, hair oil, or body oil, this nourishing must-have delivers moisture that’s quickly absorbed.

Nourish Organic Replenishing Oil With Pomegranate and Rosehip

Argan combines with jojoba, rosehip, and pomegranate oils to create a rich blend of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants to both hair and skin.

Argan Oil for Hair

Want to nix frizz, protect against heat styling, deep condition, or treat split ends? Argan oil is a secret weapon when it comes to slaying manes.

Argan Oil Hair Products

Say hello to lustrous locks thanks to these argan-infused hair products.

Andalou Naturals Argan Oil & Shea Shampoo

Formulated for curls and color-treated tresses, this moisturizing shampoo helps tame frizz while imparting shine with argan oil, fruit stem cells, and shea butter.

Seaweed Bath Co. Argan Conditioner With Eucalyptus and Peppermint

This aromatic, paraben-free conditioner includes sustainably-harvested bladderwrack seaweed, aloe, coconut oil, and argan oil to soften strands and boost manageability.

All About Coconut Oil

Believe it or not, there’s evidence of the use of coconut oil in Ayurvedic medicine as far back as 1500 BC. Since then, the multitasking oil has continued to grow in popularity, for cooking, as a topical treatment for hair, skin, and nails, and a variety of other genius home uses. Obtained from either dried or fresh coconuts, coconut oil can be broken into three categories:

• Unrefined: This extraction process rarely uses heat. Instead, oil is extracted from the milk of fresh coconuts, which is known as “wet milling.”
• Raw: Raw coconut oil is never exposed to heat during extraction and little processing is used.
• Refined: Refined coconut oil is extracted from the dried kernels of mature coconuts (known as copra). This process is called “dry milling.”

Coconut Oil for Skin

Naturally antimicrobial and enriched with free-radical-fighting antioxidants, coconut oil is a skincare essential for most any skin type. Just a dab of this omega-rich oil can deliver deep moisture and boost skin’s overall suppleness and texture. Here are a few coconut oil skin products we’re nuts about.

Mountain Ocean Coconut Moisturizer

Give dry skin a moisture surge without a greasy residue thanks to this fast-absorbing formula that includes coconut oil, aloe, and lanolin.

Thrive Market Coconut Lip Balm SPF 30

Pucker up and enjoy added sun protection with a soothing blend of zinc oxide, beeswax, coconut oil, and cocoa butter.

Alaffia Fair Trade Coconut Body Wash

This ultra-hydrating shower gel is a coconut double whammy with both coconut oil and coconut water that wash away everyday pollutants to reveal softer skin.

Now Foods Liquid Coconut Oil

This lightweight, cosmetic oil is easily absorbed into skin and hair for softer texture and deep hydration without a greasy residue.

Coconut Oil for Hair

Delivering vitamins E and K along with iron, coconut oil both nourishes damaged strands and works to protect against harsh rays while acting as a natural conditioner. Be sure to stock up on these healthy hair helpers.

Alaffia Everyday Coconut Hydrating Shampoo

Rich, creamy, and Fair Trade Certified, this luxurious cleanser gently washes locks while stimulating scalps using coconut water, coconut oil, and African ginger extract.

Desert Essence Coconut Oil Conditioner

Give parched strands a moisture boost thanks to this hydrating blend of organic shea butter, sunflower oil, and coconut oil.

Pacha Almond Goat’s Milk Bar Soap

Raise the bar on bar soap and enjoy deep moisture from head to toe with this ethically sourced blend of coconut oil, olive oil, and shea butter.

Coconut Oil for the Kitchen

If you haven’t cooked with coconut oil, you’re in for a treat. Not only does it have a higher smoke point (about 350°F to 400°F) and saturated fat content than most oils, but coconut oil can add flavor and richness to a variety of dishes. Heat things up with these pantry staples.

Thrive Market Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Certified organic, fair-trade, and non-GMO, this jar of coconut oil is made from sustainably harvested coconuts grown in the Philippines.

Thrive Market Coconut Oil Mayonnaise

Like wholesome ingredients like coconut oil and cage-free eggs? Then you’ll love our gluten-free, Paleo-friendly mayo for dressings, sandwiches, or dipping.

Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Made in Southeast Asia, this pure, cold-pressed oil is never deodorized, bleached, or refined.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.