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12 Benefits and Uses of Argan Oil

Argan oil has been a culinary staple in Morocco for centuries — not only because of its subtle, nutty flavor but also its wide array of potential health benefits.

This naturally occurring plant oil is derived from the kernels of the fruit of the argan tree.

Although native to Morocco, argan oil is now used across the globe for a variety of culinary, cosmetic and medicinal applications.

This article explains 12 of the most prominent health benefits and uses of argan oil.

1. Contains Essential Nutrients

Argan oil is primarily comprised of fatty acids and a variety of phenolic compounds.

The majority of the fat content of argan oil comes from oleic and linoleic acid (1Trusted Source).

Approximately 29–36% of the fatty acid content of argan oil comes from linoleic acid, or omega-6, making it a good source of this essential nutrient (1Trusted Source).

Oleic acid, though not essential, makes up 43–49% of the fatty acid composition of argan oil and is also a very healthy fat. Found in olive oil as well, oleic acid is renowned for its positive impact on heart health (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).

Additionally, argan oil is a rich source of vitamin E, which is required for healthy skin, hair and eyes. This vitamin also has powerful antioxidant properties (1Trusted Source).

SUMMARY
Argan oil provides a good source of linoleic and oleic fatty acids, two fats known to support good health. It also boasts high levels of vitamin E.

2. Has Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The various phenolic compounds in argan oil are likely responsible for most of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities.

Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, or tocopherol, a fat-soluble vitamin that serves as a potent antioxidant to reduce the damaging effects of free radicals (1Trusted Source).

Other compounds present in argan oil, such as CoQ10, melatonin and plant sterols, also play a role in its antioxidant capacity (3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).

A recent study revealed a significant reduction in inflammatory markers in mice fed argan oil prior to exposure to a highly inflammatory liver toxin, compared to the control group (6Trusted Source).

Additionally, some research indicates that argan oil can also be applied directly to your skin to reduce inflammation caused by injuries or infections (7Trusted Source).

Although these results are encouraging, more research is needed to understand how argan oil can be used medicinally in humans to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

SUMMARY
Multiple compounds in argan oil may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, though more research is needed.

3. May Boost Heart Health

Argan oil is a rich source of oleic acid, which is a monounsaturated, omega-9 fat (1Trusted Source).

Oleic acid is also present in several other foods, including avocado and olive oils, and is often credited with heart-protective effects (2Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source).

One small human study noted that argan oil was comparable to olive oil in its capacity to reduce heart disease risk through its impact on antioxidant levels in the blood (9Trusted Source).

In another small human study, a higher intake of argan oil was associated with lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and higher blood levels of antioxidants (10Trusted Source).

In a study on heart disease risk in 40 healthy people, those who consumed 15 grams of argan oil daily for 30 days experienced a 16% and 20% reduction in “bad” LDL and triglyceride levels, respectively (11).

Although these results are promising, larger studies are necessary to better understand how argan oil may support heart health in humans.

SUMMARY
Argan oil’s fatty acids and antioxidants may help reduce heart disease risk, though more research is needed.

4. May Have Benefits for Diabetes

Some early animal research indicates argan oil may help prevent diabetes.

Two studies resulted in a significant reduction in both fasting blood sugar and insulin resistance in mice fed a high-sugar diet alongside argan oil (12Trusted Source, 13Trusted Source).

These studies largely attributed these benefits to the antioxidant content of the oil.

However, such results do not necessarily imply that the same effects would be seen in humans. Therefore, human research is needed.

SUMMARY
Some animal studies indicate argan oil may reduce blood sugar and insulin resistance to help prevent diabetes. That said, human studies are lacking.

5. May Have Anticancer Effects

Argan oil may slow the growth and reproduction of certain cancer cells.

One test-tube study applied polyphenolic compounds from argan oil to prostate cancer cells. The extract inhibited cancer cell growth by 50% compared to the control group (14Trusted Source).

In another test-tube study, a pharmaceutical-grade mixture of argan oil and vitamin E increased the rate of cell death on breast and colon cancer cell samples (15Trusted Source).

Although this preliminary research is intriguing, more research is needed to determine whether argan oil could be used to treat cancer in humans.

SUMMARY
Some test-tube studies revealed potential cancer-fighting effects of argan oil, though more studies are needed.

6. May Reduce Signs of Skin Aging

Argan oil has quickly become a popular ingredient for many skin care products.

Some research suggests that dietary intake of argan oil may help slow the aging process by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress (16Trusted Source).

It may also support repair and maintenance of healthy skin when applied directly to your skin, thus reducing visual signs of aging (7Trusted Source).

Some human studies show argan oil — both ingested and administered directly — to be effective for increasing skin elasticity and hydration in postmenopausal women (17Trusted Source, 18Trusted Source).

Ultimately, more human research is needed.

SUMMARY
A few small studies indicate that argan oil may be effective at reducing signs of aging, either when ingested or applied directly to your skin.

7. May Treat Some Skin Conditions

Argan oil has been a popular home remedy for treating inflammatory skin conditions for decades — especially in North Africa, where argan trees originate.

Although there’s limited scientific evidence supporting argan oil’s ability to treat specific skin infections, it is still frequently used for this purpose.

However, current research indicates that argan oil does contain several antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may be why it seems to treat skin tissue (7Trusted Source).

Keep in mind that more research is needed.

SUMMARY
While argan oil has been traditionally used to treat skin infections, there is limited evidence to support this. That said, anti-inflammatory compounds may benefit skin tissue.

8. May Promote Wound Healing

Argan oil may accelerate the wound healing process.

One animal study revealed a significant increase in wound healing in rats given argan oil on their second-degree burns twice daily for 14 days (19Trusted Source).

Although this data doesn’t prove anything with certainty, it does indicate a possible role for argan oil in wound healing and tissue repair.

That said, human research is needed.

SUMMARY
In one animal study, argan oil applied to burn wounds accelerated healing. However, human research is needed.

9. May Moisturize Skin and Hair

The oleic and linoleic acids that make up the majority of argan oil’s fat content are vital nutrients for maintaining healthy skin and hair (1Trusted Source, 2 0).

Argan oil is often directly administered to skin and hair but may also be effective when ingested.

In one study, both oral and topical applications of argan oil improved the moisture content of the skin in postmenopausal women (18Trusted Source).

Although there isn’t any research on the specific use of argan oil for hair health, some studies indicate that other plant oils with a comparable nutritional profile may reduce split ends and other types of hair damage (21Trusted Source).

SUMMARY
Argan oil is popularly used to moisturize skin and hair. Some research indicates the fatty acids in argan oil may support healthy, hydrated skin and reduce hair damage.

10. Often Used to Treat and Prevent Stretch Marks

Argan oil is frequently used to prevent and reduce stretch marks, although no research has been conducted to prove its efficacy.

In fact, there is no strong evidence that any kind of topical treatment is an effective tool for stretch mark reduction (22Trusted Source).

However, research does indicate that argan oil may help reduce inflammation and improve the elasticity of skin — which could be why so many people report success in using it for stretch marks (7Trusted Source, 17Trusted Source).

SUMMARY
Argan oil is often used as a remedy for treating stretch marks, although no scientific data supports this.

11. Sometimes Used to Treat Acne

Some sources claim argan oil to be an effective treatment for acne, although no rigorous scientific research supports this.

That said, argan oil’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds may support reduced redness and irritation of the skin caused by acne (7Trusted Source, 23Trusted Source).

The oil also may contribute to skin hydration, which is important for acne prevention (18Trusted Source).

Whether argan oil is effective in treating your acne likely depends on its cause. If you struggle with dry skin or general irritation, argan oil may provide a solution. However, if your acne is caused by hormones, argan oil will not likely provide significant relief.

SUMMARY
Though some people claim that argan oil is effective for treating acne, no studies support this. However, it may reduce redness and soothe irritation caused by acne.

12. Easy to Add to Your Routine

As argan oil has become increasingly popular, it’s easier than ever to add it to your health and beauty routine.

It is widely available in most major grocery stores, drug stores and online retailers.

For Skin

Argan oil is usually used topically in its pure form — but also frequently included in cosmetic products like lotions and skin creams.

While it can be applied directly to your skin, it may be best to start with a very small amount to ensure that you won’t have any adverse reactions.

For Hair

You can apply argan oil directly to damp or dry hair to improve moisture, reduce breakage, or reduce frizz.

It is also sometimes included in shampoos or conditioners.

If it’s your first time using it, start with a small amount to see how your hair responds. If you have naturally oily roots, apply argan only to the ends of your hair to avoid greasy-looking hair.

For Cooking

If you’re interested in using argan oil with food, look for varieties specifically marketed for cooking, or make sure you’re buying 100% pure argan oil.

Argan oil marketed for cosmetic purposes may be mixed with other ingredients that you shouldn’t ingest.

Traditionally, argan oil is used for dipping bread or drizzling on couscous or Tajin or vegetables. It can also be lightly heated, but it is not appropriate for high-heat dishes as it can easily burn.

– 10 Simple Beauty Benefits Of Argan Oil For Hair, Face & Body

Argan (Argania spinosa)

Argan oil is originally coming from Morocco, where women have used it for centuries as one of their main beauty rituals.

In fact, argan oil is revered for its natural content in vitamins and rich anti-oxidants and is believed to have moisturizing and anti-ageing properties. Argan is therefore sometimes referred to as “liquid gold”. Herbal Essences argan oil shampoos, conditioners, masks and oils include real argan, as identified by plant experts at the Royal Botanic Garden, Kew in London.

Argan oil is a beauty multitasker of the highest order: Whether on its own or formulated with other actives, the popular oil is great for hair, nails, and skin. Users love it because it’s lightweight, sinks in effortlessly, is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and helps lock in moisture like you won’t believe. Ahead, find 10 ways you can use argan oil to optimize your beauty routine:

1. Facial oil

Since argan oil is super nutrient-dense without being heavy and clogging pores, consider using this as your go-to facial oil. In a study published by the International Journal of Molecular Science, it states that argan oil can have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin, which help repair the skin’s barrier and improve wound healing. And according to board-certified dermatologist arga n, M.D., argan oil is full of fatty acids and vitamin E that help to boost moisture levels in the skin, which also helps improve texture. “And since argan oil is noncomedogenic, it is not problematic for acne-prone areas,” Hadley says. (We’ll get to more about its benefits for acne-prone skin later.) ADVERTISEMENT

2. Oil cleanse

Oil cleansing is a favorite cleansing method for natural beauty lovers: It hydrates the skin, effectively removes impurities, and keeps things balanced by maintaining natural oil levels in your skin while absorbing excess sebum. “The best way I’ve found to cleanse, in all my years as an esthetician, is oil cleansing,” says holistic esthetician and mindbodygreen Collective member Britta Plug (watch how to do it here). “It breaks down dirt, excess oil, makeup, and sunblock and even helps to dissolve blackheads in the skin over time. With a thorough oil cleanse, you get all the stuff you want off without disrupting any of the good stuff on your skin microbiome.”

King says argan oil is a great option for oil cleansing since it doesn’t clog pores. For sensitive or dry skin types, King recommends an oil-based cleanse followed by a water rinse. For oily, acne-prone skin or if you wear makeup, she recommends a double-cleanse with an oil-based cleanser first and a water-based cleanser second.

3. Cuticle oil

Whether you’re a gal that wouldn’t dare miss a routine manicure or you simply want to improve your nails, taking care of your cuticles is an important step we often overlook when it comes to healthy nails. Healthy, clean, and hydrated cuticles help to prevent dryness and cracking that can lead to infection. An easy solution is regularly hydrating your cuticles, yet another way to use that trusty bottle of argan oil.

Just as the fatty acids and vitamin E in argan oil hydrate our skin, it does the same moisturizing wonders for our cuticles. It’s lightweight and absorbs easily so you won’t have that lingering greasy look hours after applying. Simply apply the oil directly to your cuticles and massage it in until absorbed—seriously, it just takes one minute a day to do this.

4. Bath oil

Oh, the joys of at-home pampering. Argan oil is also a great addition to your at-home spa session. Board-certified dermatologist argan oil, M.D., suggests adding a few drops to your bathwater and letting the oil do all the work while you soak. You’ll rinse to soft, supple, hydrated skin like never before. Trust us, it’s a total game-changer.

5. Split end mender

Argan oil has many benefits for hair. “It’s great for many conditions, especially dry, damaged hair because its trove of fatty acids lock moisture into the hair follicle,” says Bindiya Gandhi, M.D., an American Board Family Medicine physician and mbg Collective member. Even though it’s not actually possible to reverse split ends, there are some solutions that can help improve the appearance of them. According to hairstylist Lucia Casazza, using argan oil can help transform the appearance when used as a mask. “When hair is severely overprocessed, where ends appear fragile and gummy when wet, I would use argan oil as a mask under a cap,” Casazza suggests. “There are also times when I simply apply it as a leave-in treatment before and after a blowout for a clean, polished look with silky, smooth ends.”

6. Overnight hair treatment

If you’re looking for an overnight conditioning treatment, Casazza also suggests applying argan oil as a hair mask while you sleep. “For an overnight mask, argan oil should be applied starting from the scalp all the way to the ends of the hair,” she says. Simply apply to the hair, wrap it in a microfiber towel or wrap so you don’t soak your pillow, and catch your zzz’s—allowing the liquid gold to work its magic while you rest. Come morning, simply wash and style hair as usual.

7. Pair it with your gua sha stone.

Gua sha is a natural therapy from ancient Chinese bodywork that uses a scraping tool (the stone) to promote circulation and lymphatic drainage. As you might know, it’s become very popular for facial massage, beloved by holistic beauty gurus. You need an oil to pair with the stone as you “scrape” along the skin. Argan oil is a great natural pick as it provides slip while keeping some of the much-needed tension vital in gua sha practices.

8. Highlighter

Argan oil can also double as a natural luminizer. Instead of using heavy shimmer cosmetic formulas, dab this hydrating oil atop your cheekbones for the ultimate lit-from-within glow. If you prefer an allover sheen, add a few drops of argan oil to your favorite foundation or facial moisturizer for a dreamy, dewy finish. Since it’s such a light oil, it won’t weigh down your other makeup, either.

9. Acne and acne scar healer.

Since argan oil is noncomedogenic, meaning it doesn’t clog pores, it’s a great oil option for acne-prone skin. According to Zeichner, argan oil helps soothe inflammation and may help modulate oil production in the skin, too. So not only are you limiting blocked pores, but you’re easing some of the triggers of acne altogether.

Finally: It may come in handy for acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Research shows it aids in wound healing, which acne scars would fall under the category of, as well as inhibiting the production of the pigments that create dark spots and acne marks.

10. Moisture retention

Trying to find all-natural ways to reduce signs of aging can be a full-time job. One study showed that argan oil can help lock moisture into skin, specifically, mature skin. It was conducted with postmenopausal women and found that with daily application, it resulted in a higher water content within the skin. Other research has shown that argan oil can help your skin repair itself, which is a vital function for skin to keep looking youthful for longer.

Argan oil is a natural product resulting from the pressure of the extracted almonds and Argan nuts, a plant available only in southern Morocco,” explains Dr. Casagrande. According to the doctor, the oil contains carotenoids, polyphenols, ferulic acid, squalene, steroids, and vitamin E which are potent antioxidants.