Argan Oil Benefits: 12 Powerful Uses for Skin, Hair, and Health

Argan oil has earned its reputation as “liquid gold” from Morocco, and for good reason. This versatile oil, extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, offers remarkable benefits whether you consume it, apply it to your skin, or use it in your hair care routine.

While argan oil has been a staple in Moroccan culture for centuries, modern science is now catching up to validate many of its traditional uses. From supporting cardiovascular health to reducing visible signs of aging, this naturally occurring plant oil contains a powerful combination of nutrients and beneficial compounds.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 12 evidence-based benefits of argan oil and show you how to incorporate this remarkable ingredient into your daily wellness routine.

1. Packed with Essential Nutrients and Fatty Acids

Argan oil’s impressive health benefits stem from its unique nutritional composition. The oil consists primarily of beneficial fatty acids and phenolic compounds that support various aspects of health.

The fatty acid profile of argan oil includes approximately 29-36% linoleic acid (omega-6), an essential fatty acid your body cannot produce on its own. Oleic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, comprises 43-49% of the oil’s composition. This is the same beneficial fat found in olive oil and avocados.

Beyond fatty acids, argan oil serves as an excellent source of vitamin E (tocopherol), a fat-soluble vitamin essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and eyes. Vitamin E also functions as a potent antioxidant, protecting your cells from oxidative damage.

Additional beneficial compounds in argan oil include CoQ10, melatonin, and various plant sterols, all of which contribute to its therapeutic properties.

2. Provides Powerful Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

The phenolic compounds and vitamin E in argan oil work together to combat oxidative stress and inflammation throughout your body. These effects may help protect against various chronic diseases and support overall health.

Studies have shown that argan oil can significantly reduce inflammatory markers in the body. In animal research, subjects given argan oil before exposure to inflammatory compounds showed substantially less inflammation compared to control groups.

The oil’s antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells and accelerate aging. By reducing oxidative stress, argan oil may help protect your cells and tissues from premature deterioration.

When applied topically, argan oil can also help reduce inflammation in the skin caused by injuries, infections, or inflammatory skin conditions, making it a versatile addition to your wellness toolkit.

3. Supports Cardiovascular Health

One of the most promising benefits of argan oil is its potential to support heart health. The high concentration of oleic acid and other beneficial compounds may help reduce risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease.

Research comparing argan oil to olive oil found similar heart-protective effects, including improved antioxidant levels in the blood. In human studies, regular consumption of argan oil has been associated with lower levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and reduced triglyceride levels.

One study involving 40 healthy participants found that consuming just 15 grams of argan oil daily for 30 days resulted in a 16% reduction in LDL cholesterol and a 20% decrease in triglyceride levels. These improvements in lipid profiles are significant markers of cardiovascular health.

The combination of monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds in argan oil creates a synergistic effect that may help protect your heart and blood vessels from damage.

4. May Help Manage Blood Sugar Levels

Preliminary research suggests that argan oil may play a role in supporting healthy blood sugar regulation and insulin sensitivity. While most studies have been conducted on animals, the results are encouraging.

In animal studies, subjects fed a high-sugar diet along with argan oil showed significant reductions in fasting blood sugar levels and improved insulin resistance compared to control groups. These benefits are largely attributed to the oil’s antioxidant content.

The compounds in argan oil may help protect pancreatic cells that produce insulin and improve your body’s ability to use insulin effectively. However, it’s important to note that human studies are needed to confirm these effects.

If you have diabetes or concerns about blood sugar management, consult with your healthcare provider before using argan oil as a complementary approach to your current treatment plan.

5. Shows Promise in Cancer Research

While still in early stages, research into argan oil’s potential anticancer properties has yielded interesting results. Test-tube studies have shown that compounds in argan oil may slow the growth and reproduction of certain cancer cells.

In laboratory studies, polyphenolic compounds extracted from argan oil inhibited prostate cancer cell growth by 50% compared to control samples. Another study found that a combination of argan oil and vitamin E increased cell death rates in breast and colon cancer cells.

These effects appear to stem from the oil’s high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help protect cells from the oxidative damage that can lead to cancer development.

It’s crucial to understand that these are preliminary findings from laboratory studies. Much more research is needed before argan oil could be considered as part of any cancer treatment approach. If you’re dealing with cancer, always work closely with your medical team for appropriate treatment.

6. Helps Reduce Visible Signs of Aging

Argan oil has become a sought-after ingredient in anti-aging skincare products, and research supports its effectiveness for maintaining youthful-looking skin.

When consumed as part of your diet, argan oil may help slow the aging process from the inside out by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress—two key factors that accelerate aging. The antioxidants in the oil help protect your skin cells from environmental damage caused by UV rays, pollution, and other stressors.

Applied topically, argan oil can support skin repair and maintenance, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots. Studies involving postmenopausal women found that both oral consumption and topical application of argan oil improved skin elasticity and hydration levels.

The vitamin E content is particularly beneficial for skin health, helping to strengthen the skin barrier, improve moisture retention, and promote a more even skin tone.

7. May Benefit Various Skin Conditions

For decades, people in North Africa have used argan oil as a traditional remedy for inflammatory skin conditions. While scientific research is still catching up to traditional use, current evidence supports its effectiveness for skin health.

The combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in argan oil makes it beneficial for various skin issues, including eczema, psoriasis, and general skin irritation. The fatty acids in the oil help restore the skin’s natural barrier function, which is often compromised in inflammatory skin conditions.

Argan oil’s gentle, non-irritating nature makes it suitable for sensitive skin types. Unlike some harsh treatments, it works by supporting your skin’s natural healing processes rather than stripping away protective oils.

For best results with chronic skin conditions, use argan oil as part of a comprehensive skincare approach. If you have persistent or severe skin issues, consult with a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

8. Accelerates Wound Healing

Research indicates that argan oil may speed up the wound healing process when applied topically to injured skin.

In animal studies, subjects treated with argan oil on second-degree burns showed significantly faster healing compared to those without treatment. The oil was applied twice daily, and researchers observed improved tissue regeneration and reduced healing time.

The wound-healing properties of argan oil likely come from its combination of vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory compounds. These nutrients support cell regeneration, reduce inflammation that can slow healing, and help maintain proper moisture levels in healing tissue.

While animal studies are promising, human research is needed to fully understand how argan oil can be used most effectively for wound care. For serious wounds or burns, always seek appropriate medical attention rather than relying solely on natural remedies.

9. Provides Deep Moisture for Skin and Hair

One of argan oil’s most popular uses is as a natural moisturizer for both skin and hair. The oleic and linoleic acids that make up the majority of the oil’s fatty acid content are vital for maintaining healthy moisture levels.

For skin care, argan oil absorbs easily without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and combination skin. Research shows that both oral consumption and topical application improve skin moisture content and reduce water loss from the skin surface.

For hair care, argan oil helps reduce breakage, minimize split ends, and add natural shine. It penetrates the hair shaft to nourish from within while also coating the outer layer to seal in moisture and protect against environmental damage.

The oil is particularly beneficial for dry, damaged, or chemically-treated hair. It can help restore softness and manageability while reducing frizz and flyaways. You can apply it to damp hair before styling or use it as a finishing treatment on dry hair.

10. Commonly Used for Stretch Mark Prevention

Many people use argan oil to prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks, particularly during pregnancy or periods of rapid weight change. While scientific evidence specifically studying argan oil for stretch marks is limited, there are logical reasons why it might be beneficial.

Stretch marks occur when skin is stretched rapidly, causing the collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis to tear. Argan oil’s ability to improve skin elasticity and support tissue repair may help skin better accommodate stretching and heal more effectively if stretch marks do occur.

Research confirms that argan oil can increase skin elasticity and reduce inflammation—both factors that theoretically support stretch mark prevention. The oil’s deep moisturizing properties also help keep skin supple and more resilient to stretching.

For best results, apply argan oil consistently to areas prone to stretch marks. While it may not completely prevent stretch marks in all cases, maintaining well-moisturized, elastic skin certainly doesn’t hurt.

11. May Help with Acne-Prone Skin

Despite being an oil, argan oil can be beneficial for acne-prone skin when used correctly. Its unique properties make it different from heavier oils that might clog pores.

The linoleic acid in argan oil is particularly important for acne-prone skin. Research suggests that people with acne often have lower levels of linoleic acid in their skin’s natural oils, which can lead to clogged pores. Supplementing with linoleic acid-rich oils like argan oil may help restore balance.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds in argan oil can help reduce the redness, swelling, and irritation associated with acne breakouts. Additionally, the oil supports proper skin hydration, which is important because overly dry skin can actually trigger increased oil production.

Keep in mind that argan oil’s effectiveness for acne depends on the underlying cause. It may help with acne related to dry skin, inflammation, or sebum composition, but it won’t address acne caused by hormonal imbalances or bacteria. If you have persistent acne, consult with a dermatologist for appropriate treatment options.

12. Simple to Incorporate into Your Daily Routine

One of the best things about argan oil is how easy it is to add to your existing health and beauty routine. The oil is now widely available at grocery stores, health food stores, pharmacies, and online retailers.

For Skincare

You can use pure argan oil directly on your face and body, or look for skincare products that contain it as a key ingredient. To use pure argan oil, apply 1-2 drops to clean, slightly damp skin and massage gently until absorbed. Use it morning and evening, or just at night if you prefer.

Start with a small amount to ensure your skin responds well. Most people tolerate argan oil excellently, but it’s always wise to patch test any new skincare product.

For Hair Care

Apply a few drops of argan oil to damp or dry hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. If you have oily roots, avoid applying oil to your scalp. You can use it as a pre-shampoo treatment, leave-in conditioner, or styling product to tame frizz and add shine.

Many shampoos and conditioners now include argan oil, making it even easier to enjoy its benefits. Look for products that list argan oil near the beginning of the ingredient list for higher concentrations.

For Cooking

If you want to consume argan oil for internal health benefits, make sure you purchase food-grade oil specifically labeled for culinary use. Cosmetic argan oil may contain additives unsuitable for consumption.

Culinary argan oil has a subtle, nutty flavor that works well drizzled over salads, vegetables, couscous, or used as a bread dip. Avoid high-heat cooking with argan oil as it has a relatively low smoke point and can become bitter when overheated.

Choosing Quality Argan Oil

To get the full benefits of argan oil, quality matters. Look for 100% pure, cold-pressed, organic argan oil without added ingredients. The oil should be packaged in a dark glass bottle to protect it from light damage.

High-quality argan oil has a light golden color and a subtle, nutty aroma. If the oil smells rancid, overly strong, or has no scent at all, it may be low quality or improperly stored.

Store your argan oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. While it has a relatively long shelf life compared to some oils, use it within 12 months of opening for best quality.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Argan oil is generally safe for most people when used topically or consumed in normal food amounts. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

If you have a tree nut allergy, consult with your healthcare provider before using argan oil, as there’s a theoretical risk of allergic reaction. While argan isn’t a true tree nut, it’s better to be cautious.

When using argan oil topically for the first time, perform a patch test by applying a small amount to your inner forearm and waiting 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions.

If you’re pregnant, nursing, or have any medical conditions, talk to your healthcare provider before consuming argan oil regularly as a supplement, especially in amounts larger than typically used in cooking.

The Bottom Line

Argan oil stands out as a versatile natural product with benefits supported by both traditional use and modern scientific research. Its unique combination of essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidant compounds makes it valuable for both internal health and external beauty applications.

From supporting heart health and managing inflammation to improving skin elasticity and hair moisture, argan oil offers numerous potential benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand all its effects, existing evidence and centuries of traditional use suggest it’s a worthwhile addition to your wellness routine.

Whether you choose to consume it, apply it to your skin, or use it in your hair care routine, argan oil provides a natural, gentle option for supporting your health and beauty goals. Start with small amounts, choose high-quality products, and pay attention to how your body responds.

With its impressive nutrient profile and multiple applications, it’s easy to see why argan oil has earned its place as a cherished ingredient in kitchens and beauty cabinets around the world.

Sources:

• Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine – Argan Oil Properties and Applications
• British Journal of Nutrition – Cardiovascular Effects of Argan Oil
• Linus Pauling Institute – Essential Fatty Acids and Skin Health
• PubMed Central – National Institutes of Health Database
• Wiley Online Library – Peer Reviewed Nutrition Research