Curious About Argan Oil for Hair? Learn How the Natural Treatment Restores Shine, Moisture and More
Plus, a top hair loss doctor weighs in on if argan oil can make your hair grow
There’s no question that the variety of hair oils available today is plentiful. The options seem endless, from the classics like coconut oil and rosemary oil to more niche-yet-ultra-trendy picks like batana oil and baobab oil. One of the all-time, most well-known favorites when it comes to the world of hair oils? Argan oil. You’ve likely heard of it before and maybe have even tried it for yourself, but do you know all the incredible benefits that accompany it? Allow us to fill you in. We tapped a top hair doctor for his insights on argan oil for hair, including its benefits, the best way to apply it and his favorite product picks to choose from.
About argan oil and where it comes from
Before using any product, it’s essential to know what exactly it is. Argan oil is a natural oil that originates from Morocco, more specifically from the kernels of the argan tree, says Ross Kopelman, DO, a hair restoration surgeon in New York City.
“Traditionally, it’s been used there [Morocco] for centuries, not just for hair but also for skin and even cooking. In terms of hair care, I started noticing it becoming popular in the early 2000s—suddenly, it was in every product on the shelf,” Dr. Kopelman tells us. “And for good reason—it’s packed with nutrients and has a reputation for transforming dry, frizzy hair into something much more manageable.”
What does argan oil do for hair?
Keep scrolling to see all the benefits of using argan oil for hair.
Argan oil hydrates hair
What argan oil is most known for and really shines at is its ability to treat dry hair, adding hydration and nourishment to locks. “I often recommend it to patients dealing with dry or brittle hair because it’s rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, which help lock in moisture,” explains Dr. Kopelman. Just like how vitamin E and fatty acids can help bring moisture to your skin barrier (they’re commonly found in creams and moisturizers), they can restore moisture to your dry strands.
Argan oil protects hair from heat
The oil is ideal for those who use hot tools often. “It also acts as a natural heat protectant, which is great for anyone who styles their hair frequently,” affirms Dr. Kopelman. While not every oil is ideal for use with heat, argan oil is—and it’s natural.
Argan oil manages frizz
It’s no secret that dry hair often comes with unwanted frizz, which can be so frustrating to tackle. Thankfully, argan oil can help with that without weighing your hair down. “Personally, I love that it can tame frizz without making the hair greasy or heavy when used correctly,” says Dr. Kopelman.
Does argan oil help with hair growth?
While there are oils out there that can help with hair growth (read: rosemary oil), argan isn’t the most suitable if your goal is to grow out your locks. Dr. Kopelman even calls it “a common misconception” that argan oil can help with hair growth.
“While argan oil can definitely improve the appearance of hair—it makes it look shinier, healthier and feel softer—it doesn’t actually stimulate new hair growth. There’s no clinical evidence that it can trigger follicles to produce more hair,” he says. “That being said, healthier hair is less prone to breakage, so it can help you maintain the length you have, which some people might perceive as ‘growth.’”
If you’re looking for something to help grow your thinning hair, look instead to rosemary oil or topical treatments like minoxidil.
Downsides of argan oil and the best ones to try
Argan oil is overall pretty safe to use and doesn’t come with many risks. However, like with just about any product, Dr. Kopelman says that it’s important to not overdo it, even more so if you have fine hair or are more prone to oiliness. “A little goes a long way, and too much can make hair feel greasy or weighed down,” he warns.
Another thing to keep in mind is to look for “pure argan oil or high-quality products,” he says, “since some brands dilute it or add unnecessary fillers.” For a pure argan oil without additives, he recommends Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil. For a budget buy, he suggests The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil (which costs around just $8). Another one of his favorite picks is the cult-favorite Moroccanoil.
How to apply argan oil
When it comes to applying argan oil, again, a little goes a long way. Dr. Kopelman says he likes to just use 1-2 drops, applying to damp hair and working it through mainly the mid-lengths to ends. It’s a great leave-in, unlike some other, heavier oils that need to be rinsed out. “Some of my patients also like to use it as an overnight treatment, applying a bit more generously and rinsing it out in the morning. That’s totally fine too—just depends on your hair type and routine,” he says.
Conversation
All comments are subject to our Community Guidelines. First For Women does not endorse the opinions and views shared by our readers in our comment sections. Our comments section is a place where readers can engage in healthy, productive, lively, and respectful discussions. Offensive language, hate speech, personal attacks, and/or defamatory statements are not permitted. Advertising or spam is also prohibited.
