Everything You Need to Know About Using Argan Oil for Your Hair

Argan oil works best on damp hair

Anastasiia Kazakova/ShutterstockMost stylists agree that the best time to apply argan oil is right after you step out of the shower on damp or towel-dried hair. “Use argan oil before blow drying for heat protection and shine and to tame frizz,” says Erin Zemet from Main Street Salon, However, do not go overboard with it prior to flat ironing, as it can “cook” the hair. All you need is a few drops. Rub the oil between your palms and comb your fingers between strands. Make sure to massage it into the scalp to reap maximum benefits; targeting the roots will help you attack split ends.

You shouldn’t overuse it

The cliched statement rings true in this case: too much of a good thing is a bad thing. Unless it’s already infused inside hair products (in which case you should follow its specific instructions), pure argan oil should only be used two times a week, max. Anymore could stimulate oil glands and make your hair look greasy.

It’s not ideal for all hair types

Generally speaking, argan oil is better suited for medium to coarse hair. If your hair is naturally super fine, argan oil could make the strands too oily. But don’t give up too quickly—you may find that argan oil shampoo or conditioner gives your hair just the boost you need. Play around with products to find what works best for you.

It soothes irritated scalps

Forget dumping buckets of Head & Shoulders on your scalp; you may find your solution in something more natural. “The natural properties of argan oil are a tremendous boon for a scalp plagued by dandruff and irritation,” Rupinder Mangat, founder and CEO of MEVEI, told Hold The Hairline. “Argan oil is a great moisturizer and rich in natural phenols, as well as extraordinarily high in vitamin E and antioxidants that are beneficial to hair follicles. Not only does this promote new hair growth, but it also helps grow healthy, thick looking hair.” One particular study out of South Korea found that 44 percent of participants experienced hair regrowth with argan oil treatment, which worked as well as the drug minoxidil, but without the potentially harmful side effects, according to Mangat. Don’t miss these other hair care tricks from around the world.

Not all argan oil is the same

progressman/ShutterstockThe price of argan oil can range drastically, with a 1.7 ounce bottle costing up to $50. While there are cheaper oils available on the market, stylists advise that it’s a good idea to splurge. “Like with olive oil, quality makes a huge difference,” Zemet says. “The cheaper the product, the more fillers it contains. Also, you will need to use more of the cheaper product to get the same effect as a more pure, more expensive version.”

Argan oil prevents environmental damage

“Argan oil is a great hair and scalp moisturizer, because of its vitamin and antioxidant content,” says Raymond Anthony, Artistic Designer from Salon Eva Michelle. That’s also what creates a barrier for sun, chlorine, and saltwater damage. But this multi-tasking oil isn’t just for your hair. Check out these other amazing uses for argan oil to improve your health and beauty.