Why argan oil dominates skin and hair care routines worldwide

The beauty aisle has its recurring characters, and argan oil is one of them. It is marketed as a fix for frizz, a shortcut to softer skin, a small luxury that feels vaguely medicinal.

The substance itself is straightforward. Argan oil comes from the kernels of the argan tree, native mainly to Morocco and parts of Algeria, and health sources point to its high levels of vitamin E, antioxidants and essential fatty acids as the reason it is so widely used in skin and hair care products.

The oil, sometimes called “liquid gold,” contains high levels of vitamin E, antioxidants and essential fatty acids that support skin, hair and overall health, according to medical and health sources.

Produced by processing the kernels of olive-like fruits, argan oil has long been used in cosmetics, nutrition and traditional remedies. Its growing global popularity stems from its moisturizing properties, anti-inflammatory effects and potential health benefits.

Traditional argan oil production process, where kernels are manually cracked and processed to extract the oil, accessed on February 20, 2026. (Adobe Stock Photo)

What are the benefits of argan oil?

Medical sources describe argan oil as rich in vitamin E, oleic acid and linoleic acid, compounds known for supporting skin health and protecting cells from oxidative stress.

For skin care, argan oil helps maintain moisture balance and improve elasticity. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may reduce redness, irritation and acne appearance while supporting tissue repair.

Some studies also suggest it can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and strengthen the skin barrier by preventing moisture loss.

Potential skin benefits:

• Deep hydration and prevention of dryness
• Protection against damage from free radicals
• Reduction of inflammation and skin irritation
• Improved elasticity and reduced signs of aging
• Support for wound and burn healing
• Regulation of oil balance in the skin

Argan oil also plays a role in hair care. Its high vitamin and fatty acid content nourishes the scalp, strengthens hair strands and helps prevent breakage. Regular use may improve shine, softness and overall hair health, while also reducing dandruff and supporting healthy growth.

Beyond cosmetic use, argan oil may support general health when consumed in appropriate forms. Research cited by Acibadem indicates that its unsaturated fatty acids may help lower bad cholesterol levels, support heart health and increase antioxidant levels in the body. S

Some studies also suggest possible effects on insulin resistance and blood sugar balance, although research on certain health claims remains ongoing.

A person applies argan oil to hair as part of a moisturizing treatment commonly used in hair care routines, accessed on February 20, 2026. (Adobe Stock Photo)

How is argan oil used?

Argan oil is used in three main ways: topical skin care, topical hair care, and food use in some producing regions. Medical sources describe it as a moisturizing oil rich in vitamin E, antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which explains why it appears in many cosmetic formulas and is also used as a base oil in massage and aromatherapy contexts.

Skin care use

• Moisturizer: Apply a few drops to clean skin and massage in until absorbed. Sources describe this as a way to support hydration and softness, especially for dry or sensitive skin.
• Night use: It can be used as part of a nighttime routine as a simple leave on product, again in small amounts.
• Targeted areas: Sources mention common use on areas that dry out easily, such as hands, nails and cuticles, and for rough heels.
• Mask ingredient: Health and lifestyle sources also describe mixing argan oil with ingredients like yogurt, honey or avocado to create moisturizing face or hair masks.

Hair care use

• Lengths and ends: Apply a small amount to the ends to support softness and reduce dryness related breakage and frizz, which is a repeated claim across the sources.
• Scalp and roots: It can also be worked into the scalp to support moisture and comfort, then left as a treatment before washing.
• Pre wash mask: Sources describe applying it before a shower, leaving it on for about 20 to 30 minutes, then washing it out.
• Frequency: Using argan oil two to three times per week for skin and hair, while another suggests once or twice weekly for hair, so you can present frequency as a range rather than a fixed rule.

Food use in some regions

Cold pressed argan oil is consumed in the producing regions, sometimes used like olive oil and eaten with bread or used with foods such as salads. This is presented as a regional practice rather than a universal recommendation.

What to consider before using it

• Patch test first: Your sources explicitly advise trying a small amount on a limited patch of skin before regular use to check for adverse reactions.
• Allergies: People with nut allergies should be more cautious.
• Overuse risks: Applying too frequently or too heavily may contribute to pore clogging and breakouts in some people, so the sources emphasize using small amounts.
• Medical caveat: Health institutions in your sources stress that the information is general and does not replace medical advice for diagnosis or treatment.

Health institutions stress that information about argan oil is for general guidance and medical advice should be sought for diagnosis or treatment of health conditions.

February 21, 2026 03:57 AM GMT+03:00