What Is Argan Oil?

In the world of beauty and wellness, oils tend to be superstars. From DIY hair and skincare treatments to holistic healing remedies, these naturally derived serums can support a variety of self-care rituals. But while some may be considered “essential,” not all oils are created equal. Enter argan oil. This ancient beauty secret has finally spread globally, bringing nutrient-rich, beautifying benefits for hair, skin, and beyond. Not familiar with what some refer to as “liquid gold?” Here’s a closer look at this booming oil.

History of Argan Oil

Dating back to 600 BCE, argan oil originated on Morocco’s Haha Coast where it was used by the Phoenicians as a healing and beautifying elixir, and later used by the Berber people of North Africa. In 1500, attempts were made to introduce argan oil to Europe, but the craze didn’t stick. In fact, by the 20th century, farmers would often clear away argan trees to plant crops they thought would be of greater value. It wasn’t until scientific research conducted during the 1990s prompted the Moroccan government to step in and place the trees under protection. The government later created an initiative to increase argan oil production after discovering the oil is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well antioxidants, linoleic acid, and omega-6 fatty acids.

How Is Argan Oil Made?

Argan oil is extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, which is native to Morocco. Years ago, the argan nuts would be cracked open using stone tools, a job often taken on by the women in the village. Interestingly, these nuts were also consumed by tree-climbing goats in the area, and it was soon discovered that the stubborn nuts were far easier to crack open once expelled from the goat’s digestive track. In other words, once the nuts were retrieved from the goat’s dung. Thankfully, technology has since evolved to a far more hygienic process which grinds and presses the nuts in machines!

How to Use Argan Oil

Like coconut oil, argan oil is a multitasking workhorse with many uses. Primarily comprised of antioxidants and fatty acids, argan oil is particularly beneficial to the hair and skin as a conditioner, moisturizer, frizz tamer, and even anti-aging serum. Its nourishing benefits also make argan oil a go-to holistic remedy for soothing dry or damaged skin along, treating brittle nails, protecting against stretch marks, and restoring balance to acne-prone skin.

Argan Oil for Skin

Fortified with nutrients like fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants, it’s no wonder argan oil can also promote radiant skin. Get glowing with these skincare favorites.

ACURE The Essentials Moroccan Argan Oil

This multipurpose must-have can be used as a hair and face serum or a body oil, delivering nourishing moisture that’s quickly absorbed.

Nourish Organic Replenishing Argan Oil With Pomegranate and Rosehip

Combining argan with jojoba, rosehip, and pomegranate oils, this rich blend delivers essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants to both hair and skin.

EO Argan Oil Face Oil With Avocado & Vitamin E

Comprised of certified organic oils, this replenishing facial serum keeps free radicals at bay with a potent blend of antioxidants.

Argan Oil for Hair

Argan oil has quickly become a healthy hair essential when used on its own or as an ingredient in a hair care product. Here are a few of our favorite ways to treat your mane to the benefits of argan oil:

• Use it as an overnight hair mask for treating damaged tresses or dandruff
• Comb a couple drops through dry hair to tame frizz and treat split ends
• Spritz onto wet hair as a leave-in conditioner
• Work a few drops in from roots to tips to protect against sun exposure

Stock up your shower and your styling kit with these go-to argan hair products.

ACURE Shampoo Bar, Coconut & Argan

This all-in-one shower bar is equipped to clean your hair and skin. With a gentle, palm oil free coconut oil soap base, this shampoo harnesses the power of argan oil to leave your hair and skin feeling nourished and moisturized.

Seaweed Bath Co. Volumizing Argan Shampoo

Turn up the volume while leaving locks looking healthy and silky with nutrient-rich sustainably-harvested bladderwrack seaweed, shine-inducing argan oil, and hydrolyzed barley protein for a fuller, thicker appearance.

Andalou Naturals Argan Oil & Shea Moisture Rich Conditioner

This color-safe formula locks in hydration and brings out the beauty of your natural texture thanks to argan oil, shea butter, and aloe.

Aura Cacia Argan Oil for Hair and Skin

Whether treating split ends or parched skin, keeping pure argan oil in your beauty arsenal is always a smart idea.