Argan oil is a deeply hydrating natural oil, rich in natural polyphenols, which promotes healthy hair. Using argan oil for hair is a popular technique to improve the growth, luster, and texture of the hair and the scalp, but before using it, you should know what it does and the possible side effects.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is a specific type of plant oil that is extracted from the kernel (nut) of the argan tree. Commonly employed for both culinary and cosmetic uses, it has become popular in America and other western countries for its effects on the skin and hair.
Argan oil is densely packed with important nutrients, including vitamin E, carotenes, fatty acids, tyrosol, catechins, caffeic acid, and other powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substances. It is also known as a carrier oil and can be combined with other essential oils for a more powerful natural remedy. [1]
Argan oil is a plant oil produced from the kernels of the Argan tree that is native to Morocco. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Argan Oil Benefits for Hair
The top benefits of argan oil for hair include:
Hair Growth
According to a 2013 research published in the Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journal, argan oil is helpful in preventing hair loss. [2]
There is no full-proof way to use argan oil for hair yet but the most common way to use this oil is to massage your scalp with it and use it as an overnight mask at least twice a week.
Scalp Health and Dandruff
Hair health often begins with the health of the scalp, and argan oil has a high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients that help to treat dry skin.
Multiple research studies have been conducted on the anti-inflammatory properties of argan oil. One such study showed that plant oils like olive oil and argan oil help to treat skin infections. Although very little research is available on how argan oil can help to get rid of dandruff, anecdotal evidence shows that this Moroccan find surely helps to keep your scalp health at its best. [3]
Argan oil can regulate sebum production under your skin, which makes it an effective chemical-free remedy to fight dandruff as well. The natural bioactive compounds help soothe the inflamed scalp, reduce itchiness and redness, and keep it clean. For best results, apply a few drops of pure oil warmed between your palms into freshly shampooed, damp hair. [4]
Heat Styling Protection
If you regularly use a blow dryer, this can cause damage to your hair, making it more difficult to control and style. However, argan oil can provide some protection against this common issue that people around the world suffer. [5]
Hair Conditioner/Moisturizer
Moroccan argan oil is treasured for its hair enriching properties for years. In fact, a study published in 2015 by a skin and hair expert, Maria Fernanda Reis Gavazzoni Dias, suggests that argan oil is a very crucial ingredient in hair products because of its moisturizing properties. The high oleic acid content lubricates the dry hair and locks moisture into it. [6]
You can look for argan oil-based conditioners for hair problems like frizziness, unpleasant texture, and a lack of moisture that can cause brittle or delicate hair.
How to Use Argan Oil for Hair?
There are a number of ways to use argan oil for hair, including:
- Hair conditioner
- Hair mask
- Treatment for dry skin
- Styling agent
- As a means of improving the luster and appearance of the hair
Depending on the concentration of argan oil you use, as well as how long you leave it on the hair, it can have different effects.
- When applying this oil to the hair, you can simply put 8-10 drops in your palm and gently rub your hands through your hair.
- You can leave the oil in the hair, without washing it out, as it will quickly be absorbed by the scalp and hair. [7]
- You can add a few drops of essential oil to your bottle of argan oil to change the aroma of the hair, and boost it with even more antioxidants and volatile compounds.
Best Argan Oil for Your Hair
A good quality argan oil can work wonders for your luscious locks. Although argan oil may be an expensive affair, the cost is totally worth its benefits. Keep in mind the following three rules while looking for high-quality hair oil for yourself.
- The oil should be for cosmetic use. Read the label carefully to check.
- Make sure the argan oil you are selecting is 100 percent pure and does not contain any impurities.
- The bottle of argan oil should be dark in color as it helps to protect the oil from going bad.
Having said that, make sure to always do a trial before you include any new thing into your body care routine. We suggest it’s best you consult with a medical expert beforehand to avoid any adverse consequences.
