6 ways to use Argan Oil or “liquid gold” as you prefer
What Is Argan Oil?
Argan oil — or “liquid gold” as many refer to it - is derived from the kernels of the argan tree, argan oil can be used in the kitchen (as it typically is in Morocco, where its tree is native to) or for cosmetic reasons. The oil itself can be found in its pure form, and because of its slew of beauty benefits, it can be applied topically to the skin, nails, and hair to hydrate and nourish¹.
While it can be easy to treat argan oil like a miracle worker, it shouldn't be used as the primary remedy for conditions of serious hair loss—in cases like these, it's best to visit your doctor.
How to Use Argan Oil
Depending on what your needs are, there are a number of ways to experience the goodness argan oil provides.
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As a nourishing conditioner: Argan oil is rich in nutrients and vitamins such as vitamins A, C, and E; antioxidants; linoleic acid; and omega-6 fatty acids. Because of this, it's a great ingredient for conditioning. The combination of all these super-nourishing ingredients leaves the hair strands softer, shinier, more manageable, and frizz-free.
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As a protective spray: Argan oil as an ingredient in heat protection products it's very nourishing and conditioning for the hair, and it provides great slip that makes styling easier.
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As a hydrating hair mask: An argan oil hair mask is amazing particularly if you have damaged hair. The vitamin E in the oil helps smooth frayed hair shafts and seal split ends while the omega fatty acids work to strengthen your hair. Leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes to reap the oil's full benefits.
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As a shine-inducing hair oil: High-quality oil-infused products are essential to maintaining shiny, healthy hair because hair oils are made to penetrate into your strands (as opposed to serums, which usually sit on the surface of the strands).. Use this if your strands are seriously parched.
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As an effective styling product: Argan oil provides excellent shine to the strands and has major anti-frizz benefits. For those with textured hair, it can be used to help define the curls.
- As a relieving scalp treatment: Argan oil is rich in antioxidants, it's an effective scalp treatment. It can help reduce the scalp inflammation that leads to dandruff, itchiness, and other scalp issues. To note though, it's important not to leave any kind of oil on the scalp for a prolonged period of time, as the potency might lead to scalp sensitivity and inflammation over time. 20-30 minutes is plenty of time to absorb the benefits.
As long as you're using it correctly —paying attention to both your hair type and the order you apply it—argan oil is a great addition to most haircare routines. Just remember to buy an authentic argan oil to really reap the benefits, alright? IDK about you, but I plan on keeping my argan oil extra close this winter to prevent that inevitable dryness.
Trust me when I say argan oil deserves both a gold star and a permanent place in your haircare routine.
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¹ Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;19(1):70. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070