Argan oil, often called the “liquid gold of Morocco,” is one of the most valuable and versatile natural oils in the world. It is extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree (Argania spinosa) which grows only in southwestern Morocco.

Argan oil is widely used both in the cosmetic industry - for skin, hair and nail care and in cooking, where it is used for its beneficial properties and delicate taste.

Thanks to its natural healing and beautifying properties, it remains one of the most preferred natural oils worldwide. In this article we will take a closer look at why it is so popular.

 

1. What is Argan oil?

 

Argan oil has a golden color and a light nutty aroma that distinguishes it from other natural oils. It is a natural vegetable oil extracted from the nuts of the Argan tree (Argania spinosa).

 

Argan trees grow only in the specific climate of southwestern Morocco, where local women traditionally harvest and process the nuts using methods passed down from generation to generation.

The oil is known for its unique properties and rich content of beneficial substances such as vitamin E, antioxidants and essential fatty acids.

 

Argan oil is used in both cosmetics and cooking:

  • In the cosmetic industry, it is valued for its deeply hydrating and nourishing effect on the skin, hair and nails;
  • In cooking, cold-pressed oil is used which has a light nutty flavor and is rich in monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.

 

It is also known as "liquid gold" due to its rarity and the complex extraction process. In addition to being a natural cosmetic product, Argan oil also has medicinal properties - it helps heal the skin, reduces inflammation and protects against premature aging.

 

2. How is Argan oil extracted?

 

The production of Argan oil is a complex and labor-intensive process that includes several important stages.

  • It all starts with the collection of the fruits of the Argan tree (Argania spinosa), which ripen in late summer;
  • The trees grow mainly in the semi-arid regions of Morocco, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal for their development;
  • The fruits have a thick peel and a hard core, which contains the small but extremely valuable nuts.

 

How is Argan oil extracted?

 

To produce cosmetic Argan oil, the nuts undergo a cold pressing process which ensures that all beneficial substances are preserved in the finished product.

For culinary Argan oil, the nuts are first lightly roasted to improve its flavor and aroma and then they are also pressed.

 

3. Benefits of Argan oil for the skin

 

Argan oil is one of the most powerful natural skin care products. Thanks to its rich composition it provides deep hydration, nourishment and protection.

 

Used regularly, Argan oil improves the health and appearance of the skin, helping with various skin conditions.

 

1. Hydrates and nourishes deeply

 

Argan oil is rich in essential fatty acids such as omega-6 and omega-9, which nourish the skin deeply. It creates a natural protective layer that prevents moisture loss and makes the skin soft and supple.

This is especially beneficial for people with dry and sensitive skin.

 

2. Slows down the signs of aging

 

One of the most valuable components of Argan oil is vitamin E - a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals and UV rays.

This reduces the risk of premature aging by preventing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

 

Slows down the signs of aging

 

3. Improves skin elasticity

 

Regular use of Argan oil stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, making the skin firmer and more resilient.

This is especially beneficial for mature skin which begins to lose its density and elasticity with age.

 

4. Soothes skin irritations

 

Argan oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help with skin problems such as:

  • Acne - controls excess sebum and soothes inflammation without clogging pores;
  • Eczema and dermatitis - hydrates the skin and reduces itching and redness;
  • Burns and irritations - helps restore skin from mild sunburns and rashes.

 

5. Reduces dark spots and scars

 

Thanks to its high content of antioxidants and regenerating ingredients, Argan oil helps lighten dark spots and improves skin texture.

It accelerates cell regeneration, making scars and blemishes less noticeable.

 

6. Regulates sebum production

 

Although it is an oil, Argan oil helps regulate sebum production.

It moisturizes the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable even for people with combination and oily skin.

 

How to use Argan oil for the skin?

 

  1. As a day and night moisturizer - apply a few drops to clean skin to provide deep hydration;
  2. As an anti-wrinkle serum - combine with Rose water or Aloe vera for an additional nourishing effect;
  3. For facial massage - gently rub oil into skin to stimulate circulation and improve complexion;
  4. As a soothing balm - apply to irritated or reddened skin for quick relief.

 

4. Benefits of Argan oil for the hair

 

Argan oil is one of the best natural solutions for healthy, strong and shiny hair. It hydrates, repairs damaged ends and prevents breakage without weighing hair down.

 

Hydrates and nourishes the hair

Argan oil penetrates deep into the hair, moisturizing it from within and restoring lost nutrients. This makes hair soft, silky and easy to comb.

 

Restores damaged hair

Regular dyeing, using straighteners, curling irons and blow dryers can weaken the hair making it dry and brittle.

Argan oil restores the structure of damaged hair, strengthening it and preventing breakage.

 

Protects against split ends

The ends of the hair are the most susceptible to dryness and breakage. Applying a small amount of Argan oil to the ends helps retain moisture, prevents frizz and makes the hair smoother.

 

Protects the hair during heat treatment

Argan oil acts as a natural heat protectant that protects the hair from high temperatures when using straighteners, curling irons and hair dryers.

Applying it before styling forms a protective layer that reduces heat damage.

 

Strengthens the scalp and stimulates hair growth

Massaging the scalp with Argan oil improves blood circulation and nourishes the hair follicles. This stimulates hair growth and prevents excessive hair loss.

Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, Argan oil can help with dry scalp, dandruff and itching.

 

Strengthens the scalp and stimulates hair growth

 

Suitable for all hair types

Whether your hair is dry, oily, curly or straight, Argan oil is suitable for every type. It regulates sebum production and does not make it excessively oily, making it ideal even for finer and oil-prone hair.

 

How to use Argan oil for your hair?

 

  1. As a pre-wash mask - apply a generous amount of oil to the entire length of the hair and leave it on for 30-60 minutes before shampooing;
  2. As a serum for ends - rub a few drops onto dry or damp ends to protect and smooth them;
  3. As a heat protectant - apply a small amount to the hair before using a straightener or blow dryer to prevent heat damage;
  4. For a scalp massage - rub oil into the roots of the hair, leave it on for a few hours or overnight, then shampoo;
  5. As a styling product - use a small amount on dry hair for extra shine and styling.

 

5. Benefits of Argan oil for the nails

 

Argan oil strengthens and nourishes the nails. It strengthens the nail plate, prevents delamination and provides deep hydration to the cuticles.

 

1. Strengthens the nails

 

Frequent use of nail polish, gel polish, acetone preparations and harsh chemicals can make the nails weak and prone to breakage.

Argan oil penetrates the nail structure, strengthening it and restoring its natural flexibility. This prevents splitting, peeling and unevenness.

 

2. Improves nail growth

 

Thanks to its nourishing properties, Argan oil stimulates faster and healthier nail growth. It improves circulation in the area around the cuticles which aids in the regeneration of the nail plate.

 

3. Protects against fungal infections

 

Argan oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help prevent and treat mild fungal infections of the nails and the skin around them.

 

4. Softens and hydrates the cuticles

 

Softens and hydrates cuticles

 

Dry and cracked cuticles can make your hands look unkempt. Argan oil hydrates and softens cuticles, making them easier to shape and preventing them from tearing and painful splitting.

 

How to use Argan oil for your nails?

 

  1. As a nourishing serum - rub a few drops of Argan oil directly onto the nails and cuticles every night before bed;
  2. As a massage oil - massage the nails and cuticles with the oil for a few minutes to stimulate growth and improve circulation;
  3. As a nail mask - soak the nails in a bowl of slightly warmed Argan oil for 10-15 minutes once a week for deep hydration;
  4. As a base for manicure - apply a drop of oil to the nails before using polish or gel to protect them from harmful ingredients;
  5. As a restorative treatment after gel polish - if your nails are weak and brittle after frequent use of gel polish, regular rubbing them with Argan oil can restore and strengthen them.

 

6. How to choose quality Argan oil?

 

There are many products on the market that claim to be 100% pure Argan oil, but not all of them are of high quality. Choosing real, undiluted and natural Argan oil is essential to get the most out of its beneficial properties.

 

Here are some important criteria to consider when purchasing:

 

Composition and label

 

The first thing you should check is the composition of the product. High-quality Argan oil should contain only one ingredient: Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil.

If there are additional substances on the label such as silicones, parabens, perfumes or mineral oils, the product is probably not pure Argan oil.

 

Tip: Choose oil with 100% natural ingredients and no artificial additives.

 

Extraction method

 

High-quality Argan oil is obtained through cold pressing which preserves all its beneficial properties.

This process allows the oil to remain rich in vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants.

 

Tip: Always choose cold-pressed Argan oil. Heat processing can reduce its effectiveness.

 

Packaging

 

Packaging

 

Argan oil is sensitive to light and air which means that improper storage can lead to oxidation and loss of its beneficial properties.

It is important that it be stored in dark glass bottles, not in clear plastic packaging.

 

Tip: Always choose Argan oil in dark glass bottles with a tight closure.

 

Color and consistency

 

Pure cosmetic Argan oil has a golden yellow color and a light, non-greasy texture. If the oil is too pale it has probably been diluted with other oils.

 

Tip: If the oil is too light or too thick it is probably not of high quality.

 

Fragrance

 

Real Argan oil has a light, natural nutty aroma. If it has no smell it has probably been deodorized or refined, which means it has undergone additional processing that reduces its beneficial properties.

On the other hand if it has a too strong or unpleasant odor it may be old or improperly stored.

 

Tip: Check if the oil has a slight nutty aroma. Lack of odor may indicate additional processing.

 

How to recognize fake Argan oil?

 

❌ Contains additional ingredients such as fragrances, preservatives or other oils;
❌ It has a color that is too light or too dark;
❌ It is found in a transparent or plastic package.

 

7. How to use Argan oil

 

Argan oil is extremely versatile and can be used in a variety of ways for skin, hair, and nail care. Depending on your needs you can apply it alone or combine it with other natural ingredients for a stronger effect.

 

1. Argan oil for the face

 

Argan oil is a great facial skin care product because it is light, non-greasy and absorbs quickly.

 

Daily moisturizing care:

  • Apply 2-3 drops of Argan oil to clean, dry skin in the morning, before sunscreen and makeup;
  • Massage gently with your fingertips until completely absorbed;
  • Use as a makeup base, especially if you have dry skin.

 

Nightly regenerating therapy:

 

How to make a homemade face mask with Argan oil?

 

How to make a homemade face mask with Argan oil?

 

Required ingredients:

  • 1 tsp Argan oil;
  • 1 tsp Honey;
  • 1 tsp yogurt.

 

How to make it:

  1. Mix the ingredients and apply to the face for 15-20 minutes;
  2. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.

 

2. Argan oil for the hair

 

Argan oil is a great natural hair conditioner that improves its elasticity, shine and strength.

 

Thermal protection before styling:

  • Apply 1-2 drops of Argan oil to damp hair before using a blow dryer, straightener or curling iron;
  • This will protect your hair from heat damage and make it softer and smoother.

 

How to make a homemade deep-restoring hair mask?

 

Required ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp Argan oil;
  • 1 egg yolk;
  • 1 tbsp Coconut oil.

 

How to make it:

  1. Mix the ingredients and apply to dry hair;
  2. Wrap your hair with a warm towel and leave for 30-60 minutes;
  3. Wash with a mild shampoo.

 

3. Argan body oil

 

Argan body oil

 

Argan oil is a great moisturizer for the entire body.

 

Treatment of stretch marks and scars:

  • Massage a few drops of Argan oil onto areas with stretch marks or scars twice daily;
  • Continued use improves skin elasticity and reduces the visibility of scars.

 

How to make a nourishing body lotion?

 

Required ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp Argan oil;
  • 2 tbsp Coconut oil;
  • 5 drops Lavender essential oil.

 

How to make it:

  1. Mix all ingredients and massage onto your body after showering.

 

8. Conclusion

 

Argan oil provides intensive care and protection for the skin, hair and nails. Thanks to its rich composition and universal application it remains one of the most valued and sought-after natural oils in the world.

Regular use of Argan oil brings numerous benefits - from moisturizing and softening dry skin, restoring damaged hair, to strengthening weak and brittle nails.

It is important to choose pure, cold-pressed and unrefined Argan oil to ensure its maximum effectiveness.

 

SOURCES:

1. WebMD: Argan Oil: Health Benefits, Nutrition, and Uses (18.03.2025)