6 Benefits of Argan Oil for Your Hair and the Best Ways to Apply It

Last Updated on January 10, 2023 by Gaga

Argan oil is extracted from Moroccan argan trees by pressing its kernels. This pure, cold-pressed oil is rich in vitamin E, fatty acids, polyphenols, and plant steroids that are essential for maintaining healthy hair and skin and is an ancient beauty elixir that has been around for centuries. Today, we use it in cosmetology as an ingredient in numerous beauty products like moisturizers, and as a carrier oil for essential oils.

Cold-pressed argan oil is a chemical-free solution for beautiful hair. The small molecules penetrate the cuticles and nourish your strands from the inside. But what are the benefits of using argan oil, and what is the best way to use it? Keep reading to find out!

1. Argan Oil for Dry Hair

Argan oil is rich in fatty acids that improve the moisture content of hair and add elasticity to dry brittle strands. This oil can penetrate the hair shaft to boost moisture, and, at the same time, it acts as a sealer that prevents moisture loss. It is a great remedy for your thirsty, dry hair.

A young woman applying Argan oil to dry hair

The best way to use argan oil for dry hair is as a pre-shampoo treatment. Apply oil to your hair and scalp and let it soak in for an hour before washing. Brush your hair to distribute the oil evenly, and then put your hair in a bun or wrap it in a towel. You can leave it on overnight if you plan to wash your hair in the morning. Argan oil can be used alone to reduce the drying effect of shampoo, or it can be used in conjunction with other oils. This practice will make your hair silkier, shinier, and less prone to breakage.

You may also apply the oil after washing but be careful not to overdo it. Only apply a small amount to your dry ends.

2. Argan Oil for Dyed Hair

a girl applies oil on dyed hair to get all the benefits of argan oil for hair

If you dye your hair and use bleach, argan oil can help keep your hair healthy. Rich in antioxidants, it will revitalize over-processed hair from the inside. It also forms a layer around the hair shaft that adds smoothness, and shine, and protects hair from breakage and environmental damage.

To revitalize damaged hair, use argan oil as a hair mask once a week. Apply a generous amount and massage it into your hair, focusing on the ends. Wrap your hair in a towel and leave it on for at least 30 minutes. Shampoo and condition as usual.

Alternatively, you can add a few drops of argan oil to your regular shampoo and conditioner.

To smooth and seal split ends, gently massage a few drops of oil into your dry ends.

young brunette woman brushes her silky hair in the bathroom

3. Softer and Silkier Hair

If your hair is thick and coarse, argan oil can improve the texture of your hair. Not only can it make your hair feel softer without feeling heavy, but it will help with detangling and styling your hair.

To enhance shine and softness, apply argan oil to damp, cleansed hair, and leave it on for at least 20 minutes. Shampoo and condition as usual.

You can also apply argan oil to damp hair before using the hairdryer. Put a few drops in your palms and work into the ends and middle part of your hair. If your hair is fine, make sure to use a very small amount.

A beautiful woman with healthy hair nourished with argan oil

 4. Does Argan Oil Make Hair Shiny?

If you are looking for an oil that leaves hair with a radiant shine without weighing it down, look no further. If your hair has lost its shine and feels like straw after years of coloring and/or environmental damage, you can restore its shine by using argan oil. This miracle oil creates a protective layer around the hair shaft, giving a glossy shine to your locks.

To restore shine to your hair, it is best to use argan oil as a leave-in conditioner before blow-drying. Apply a few drops to damp hair, focusing on the ends, then use a brush to distribute the oil evenly for a luxurious shine.

Another easy way to boost shine is to add a few drops of oil to your regular conditioner. Leave the conditioner in the hair for a few minutes and then rinse well.

 5. Argan Oil for Frizzy Hair

Applying argan oil to curly hair

If you experience frizzy hair, argan oil helps reduce the tendency of hair cuticles to swell, which reduces frizz. The oil penetrates the hair, reducing the absorption of moisture from the air and acting as a sealer that locks in the oil and smooths the cuticles, minimizing frizz.

The best way to use argan oil to reduce frizz is to rub a few drops into your hair after washing. This is especially effective if you have medium-to-thick curly hair. You will notice that your curls are more beautifully defined and bouncier. Another option to beautify your curly hair is to use argan oil as an overnight hair mask.

If you have fine hair, apply a very small amount to the ends before blow-drying and that will calm frizz without leaving a greasy look.

To calm down flyaway hairs, put 1-2 drops into the palms of your hands, rub your hands together, and then run through fly-away parts of the hair. You can also apply oil to damp hair before blow-drying or to get a sleeker, shinier finish.

6. Scalp Soother

Woman with healthy hair holds a bottle of Argan oil

Argan oil has anti-inflammatory properties which makes it a great remedy for dry and itchy scalps. This oil helps cleanse dead skin cells and balances the natural oils of the scalp.  It is especially helpful during the winter months because it helps prevent your scalp from drying out without clogging the pores.

To nourish and soothe dry skin on your head, gently massage pure argan oil into the scalp and leave it on for at least half an hour before washing your hair.

Is Argan Oil Good for Hair Growth?

Argan oil contains inflammation-fighting antioxidants that keep the scalp clean and moisturized. A healthy scalp is a good foundation for normal hair growth. There is no evidence that argan oil promotes hair growth. However, by reducing dryness and brittleness it protects hair from breakage and thus reduces hair shedding. Reducing breakage and splitting not only keeps the hair healthy-looking and beautiful but also means you don’t have to trim the hair as often, which makes it easier for you to achieve the desired length.

Make sure to always buy a premium 100% pure organic argan oil. Read the ingredients carefully and avoid products with added fillers or fragrances. You really don’t need these extra chemicals to enjoy the awesome benefits of argan oil for your hair.

A smiling girl blowdrying her long healthy hair

About the author

Dragica Mitrovic Gaga
Website | + posts

Gaga is a blogger and founder of the Softer Hair website. She often says that insomnia is to blame for her first blogging attempts. Being the night owl, she hated the morning alarm. She left her office job and returned to what she loved most - writing.

 

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