Argan Oil for Hair Growth: Is It Effective?

Argan oil is a popular cosmetic oil that has been used for centuries by the people of Morocco to improve the appearance and health of the hair. Argan oil has gained popularity worldwide as a beauty product in recent years due to its numerous benefits, including its potential to promote hair growth.

What is argan oil?

Argan oil is extracted from the nuts of argan trees native to Morocco. This oil is a rich source of beneficial compounds, such as essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants. These compounds help protect, nurture, and moisturize the skin, hair, and nails and may also have anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits and help with hair growth.

What does argan oil do for hair?

Argan oil contains several essential fatty acids, including oleic, linoleic, and palmitic. These fatty acids help with hair growth as they nourish the hair and scalp, stimulate blood circulation to the hair follicles, and prevent hair loss.

Argan oil is also very rich in vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties to protect the hair from damage caused by free radicals.

This beneficial oil also contains plant sterols, which help reduce inflammation and irritation of the scalp. This can benefit those suffering from skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.

Is argan oil good for hair? Benefits Overview

• Improves hair growth. Argan oil is full of essential fatty acids that help to promote hair growth by stimulating the scalp and nourishing the hair follicles.
• Reduces hair loss. Argan oil has antioxidants that protect the scalp’s surface and can help reduce hair loss due to damage from outside factors. When moisturized and protected, the hair is less likely to break.
• Repairs hair coloring damage. Argan oil can be used as a daily treatment to help improve hair structure and add moisture and balance to the ends of the hair, where damage is most likely to occur.
• Moisturizes hair. One of the most beneficial factors of argan oil is its ability to moisturize the hair and scalp. Adding moisture to the hair can help protect it from damage, improve the overall look of the hair, and also help to protect it from damage and breakage.
• Reduces Frizz. The fatty acids in the argan oil help to tame frizz and flyaways. By smoothing the hair, argan oil can help to create a sleek and more polished look.
• Adds shine. Argan oil can add shine to dull, lifeless hair. It can help reflect light, giving it a glossy, healthy look.

How do you apply argan oil to the hair?

There are many ways to use and apply argan oil to the hair to help promote growth. One of the most popular methods is to massage the oil directly into the scalp. This can stimulate circulation to the hair follicles and nourish the scalp. To use argan oil for scalp massage, apply a few drops of high-quality oil to the fingertips and massage gently for 2–3 minutes.

Different ways to use argan oil for hair

• Argan oil hair mask. Argan oil can be mixed with other oils, such as coconut or castor oil, and used as a hair mask. This can provide a deep, nourishing treatment to the hair and scalp and promote healthy growth. To make an argan oil hair mask, mix a few drops of argan oil with another oil of your choice. Apply directly to the scalp and hair and leave on for at least 30 minutes.
• Shampoo. Argan oil shampoos can be applied by taking a coin-sized amount and gently massaging it into the scalp. It’s beneficial to rinse and repeat the treatment for optimal cleanliness and nourishment.
• Leave-in Conditioner. Argan oil can use used as a leave-in treatment to help protect the hair from damage throughout the day. To use argan oil as a leave-in conditioning treatment, simply apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner and a few drops of argan oil to the ends of your hair after washing and blow-drying as usual.
• Styling products, such as sprays and serums. Argan oil styling products are an excellent option for leave-in treatments and may be used every day to help nourish and stimulate hair growth.

How to find the best argan oil on the market

There are many factors to consider when choosing a quality argan oil product:

• Look for 100% pure argan oil.
• Confirm that the argan oil is sourced and made in Morocco.
• Most argan oil is extracted by hand, and this should be noted on the label.
• Look for organic certification.
• Read online reviews for quality assurance.

When will I start seeing results?

The time it takes to see results after using argan oil for hair can vary depending on the hair and skin type of the individual, the frequency, and method of use, and the specific benefit they are seeking. Generally speaking, most people will start to notice improvements in the hair and scalp within just a few applications if the goal is to improve hair and scalp hydration and texture.

If you want to improve hair thickness and growth, argan oil may need to be used for several weeks or months before noticing significant results and changes to hair growth.

Argan oil vs. other oils for hair

There are a number of different oils that can be used for the hair to achieve healthy-looking shine and growth. See the table below for a comparison of the most common types of hair oils and their benefits.

Type of oil	Benefits	Cost
Argan oil	Great for promoting healthy hair. High in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.	$$$
Jojoba oil	Best for promoting healthy skin. High in vitamins and antioxidants.	$$$
Almond oil	Best for moisturizing skin and nails. High in vitamins and fatty acids.	$$
Olive oil	Best for cooking, but not ideal for skin or hair. High in omega-3 fatty acids.	$
Grapeseed oil	Best for hair and acne-prone skin. High in vitamins and minerals.	$$$
Coconut oil	Great for hair hydration and dryness prevention. Contains vitamin E, K, and iron.	$

What are the disadvantages of using argan oil?

Argan oil is considered safe and effective for almost everyone; however, it can have some mild drawbacks when used regularly. Most people report a heavy or greasy feeling on the hair, which can be undesirable for some people. Another disadvantage of using argan oil is that it can be costly. It is one of the more expensive hair oils on the market, and something to consider if the plan is to use it long-term.

An uncommon yet notable disadvantage would be an allergic reaction. Although unlikely for most individuals, it can be essential to test a small area on the scalp before use. This can prevent allergic reactions on the scalp, neck, or forehead, where the hair touches.

Argan oil can be beneficial to any hair care routine to promote healthy growth. It contains essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants that protect and nourish the hair and scalp. Argan oil can stimulate blood circulation in the hair follicles and prevent hair loss. Although argan oil is beneficial and has few to no drawbacks, it’s important to note that hair care products vary for everyone, and finding the best product to suit your needs is essential.