Everything You Need to Know About Using Argan Oil for Your Hair
Updated: Feb. 06, 2018
Argan oil is recommended for everything from a scalp-and-strands moisturizer to a frizz tamer to a split-end saviour. Here’s what you should know before trying it.
Argan oil works best on damp hair
Most 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, 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.
Don’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. Any more 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.
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It soothes an irritated scalp
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 per cent 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. (This is what the wrong shampoo is doing to your scalp.)
Not all argan oil is the same
The 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.
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