When I was 19 and starting to feel the fallout of chemically straightening my hair, the one thing that kept my strands from completely breaking off was argan oil. Between castor oil, jojoba oil, and all of the other oils we're constantly drenching our hair in, most can agree that the most beneficial one for our strands is argan. Show Extracted from the core of the argan tree, this popular beauty elixir is a common addition to our hair regimens—found in everything from masks to gels—that's brimming with potential benefits. We know it's rich in antioxidants and vitamins, but what exactly is it and whatdoes this do for our hair? Meet the Expert
To find out exactly what it is about argan oil that makes it wildly beneficial for our precious locks, we tapped into two celebrity hairstylists Andrew Fitzsimons and Kevin Hughes, as well as certified trichologist Mark Blake. Below, they're breaking down everything there is to know about this miracle oil and all of the things it can do (spoiler alert: there's a lot). What is Argan Oil?Argan Oil is derived from the kernels of the argan tree, and 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 nourish. While it can be easy to treat argan oil like a miracle worker (because let's face it, in some cases, it really is), 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. Despite that, it has plenty of uses to help your hair look healthy, shiny and full of volume. Scroll down to learn all about argan oil hair benefits.
Argan Oil Type of ingredient: Hydrator Main benefits: Moisturizes, adds shine, protects hair, protects from breakage and increases elasticity. Who should use it: In general, full strength argan oil can be used on thicker or curly hair, while lighter versions can be used on all hair types. How often can you use it: It is safe to use every day. Works well with: Other moisturizing oils, like jojoba, castor oil or coconut oil. Don't use with: No known contraindications. Be aware that argan oil has tree nut oil, so discuss with your doctor before use if you have allergies. Liz deSousa for ByrdieBenefits of Argan Oil for HairBoth Hughes and Fitzsimons agree that much of argan oil's magic stems from its composition: It's rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. If you're looking to make hair softer and more manageable (aren't we all?), this can be your go-to oil as it has a slew of benefits, according to experts.
Hair Type Considerations Argan oil can generally be used on most hair types, however you may need to apply it differently or use a different type of argan oil depending on your needs. “Full strength argan oil is ideal on thick, curly or heavily colored hair,” says Blake. If you have fine
hair or hair that tends to get oily, full strength argan oil can weigh your hair down if you don’t apply it sparingly. You can also look for products with argan oil instead of the pure oil. “A blended or light weight version is ideal on most types of hair,” he says. Use a light touch when applying argan oil and focus it on the ends of your hair and away from your scalp. How to Use Argan Oil for HairDepending on what your needs are, there are a number of ways to experience the goodness argan oil provides. "I would recommend it as a conditioner or as a styling product on the mid lengths and ends of your hair," says Blake. "Some argan oils are a bit heavy, so look for ones that have been blended to make a perfect combination." Watch Now: How to Apply Argan Oil to your Hair
Argan oil can be used on areas other than hair. Prone to dry patches on your face, body, or cuticles? Applying a few drops of argan oil may provide all the hydration you need.
The Best Products With Argan OilArgan oil is lauded for being a haircare wonder, but how can you tell if you've landed a quality one? With the pure oils, looking at color (should be a golden hue), scent (slightly nutty), and potency (labeled as 100 percent argan oil) will help you identify real versus fake, quality versus refined. When it comes to using the oil in shampoos, conditioners, and other hairstyling products, you'll know if argan is the star if it's listed as one of the first ingredients on the label. Ready to incorporate argan oil into your haircare routine? Here are our favorite argan oil hair products to add to your wish list. Moroccanoil Dry Texture Spray $28.00 Shop "I love Moroccanoil's Dry Texture Spray because there are so many ways to use it," says Hughes. "It's a dry argan oil-infused texture spray that lets you create effortless, undone styles with long-lasting hold. I can use it as a finishing spray for styles with carefree, textured volume, or I can also use it as a prep spray to provide foundational grip for no-slip braids and updos." Creme of Nature Perfect Edges $6.00 Shop "I'm obsessed with this edge cream," says Fitzsimons. "It has an amazing hold for even the most stubborn edges, is totally flake-free, and the argan oil provides so many nourishing benefits to the hair, so I feel good about using it on my clients." Briogeo Farewell Frizz Smoothing Shampoo $26.00 Shop This lush and creamy shampoo features a mix of argan, rose-hip, and coconut oil meant to not only repair damage, but also keep tresses hydrated and strong. Nature Lab Tokyo Perfect Smooth Hair Oil $17.00 Shop "I have a couple of clients who prefer when I use cruelty-free products, so I've been testing this new hair oil infused with argan stem cells (in addition to argan oil), which sounds so futuristic and cool," says Fitzsimons. "This is a really great oil because it totally smooths out frizz and adds amazing shine." Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil $49.00 Shop This 100% pure natural and organic argan oil doesn't discriminate against skin type—anyone from the oiliest to the driest and even the most sensitive may find it healing. Best part? It's multi-use and can be applied anywhere you're lacking moisture. When buying pure argan oil, make sure its a quality product. While hand-pressed argan oil will have some differentiators when it comes to smell, pure argan oil will almost always have a nutty scent. Its texture should also be smooth, not watery. OGX Renewing Argan Oil of Morocco Conditioner $6.00 Shop Made up of argan oil derived from the Mediterranean argan tree, this conditioner is chock full of strand-loving properties. Vitamin E and antioxidants are meant to smooth out hair while also giving it a protective barrier from future damage. Hask Argan Oil 5-in-1 Leave-In Spray $8.00 Shop This multi-functional leave-in does it all: detangles, eliminates frizz, induces shine, promotes strong strands, and restores hydration. FAQ
Which type of argan oil is best for hair?6 Argan Oil Hair Treatments That Will Gloss Up Your Haircare Routine. Best Overall: Moroccanoil Moroccanoil Treatment.. Best Spray-On Treatment: OGX Moroccan Argan Healing Oil Spray.. Best Drugstore: SheaMoisture 100% Pure Argan Oil.. Best for Curly Hair: Pattern Argan Oil Hair Serum.. Which argan oil brand is best?Best Overall: SheaMoisture 100% Pure Argan Oil
There's one ingredient and one ingredient only in this bottle. That's right, you get straight-up argan oil, without any other oils or fillers.
What argan oil should look for in hair?When buying pure argan oil, make sure its a quality product. While hand-pressed argan oil will have some differentiators when it comes to smell, pure argan oil will almost always have a nutty scent. Its texture should also be smooth, not watery.
Which argan oil is pure?Moroccanoil Pure Argan Oil is 100% pure argan oil, which is known for its nourishing and conditioning properties for the skin, nails and hair.
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