How to Use Argan Oil for Hair: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide
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Argan oil is one of the most versatile natural hair oils available — but to get the best results, it's important to use it correctly. The right amount, the right method, and the right frequency make all the difference.
In this complete guide, we cover every way to use argan oil for hair — from a quick leave-in conditioner to an intensive overnight treatment — with step-by-step instructions for each method.
👉 For the full overview of benefits, read: Argan Oil Benefits for Hair: 7 Reasons to Use It Every Week
Before You Start: Choosing the Right Argan Oil
Not all argan oils deliver the same results. For maximum hair benefits, always choose:
- 100% pure — no fillers, silicones, or synthetic additives
- Cold-pressed — heat processing destroys vitamin E and fatty acids
- Unrefined — refining strips away beneficial compounds
- Certified organic — no pesticide residues
At PURE BÉNI, our 100% Pure Organic Argan Oil meets all of these criteria — cold-pressed, unrefined, and certified organic from Morocco.
Method 1: Leave-In Conditioner (Most Popular)
The most common and effective way to use argan oil for hair. Ideal for daily use.
Step-by-Step
- Wash your hair as usual with a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo
- Towel-dry your hair until it's damp (not dripping wet)
- Dispense 2–3 drops of argan oil into your palm
- Rub your palms together to warm the oil
- Apply evenly through mid-lengths and ends — avoid the roots
- Comb through with a wide-tooth comb to distribute evenly
- Style as usual — no need to rinse out
How much: Short hair 1–2 drops | Medium 2–3 drops | Long/thick 3–5 drops
Frequency: Daily or after every wash. Best for: Frizz control, hydration, shine.
Method 2: Heat Protectant
- Start with damp or dry hair
- Dispense 2–3 drops into your palm
- Warm between your palms and apply evenly through the hair
- Distribute with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers
- Proceed with heat styling as usual
Frequency: Every time you use heat styling tools. Best for: Heat protection, reducing breakage.
Method 3: Overnight Hair Mask
- Start with dry or slightly damp hair
- Dispense 5–10 drops into your palm
- Apply generously from roots to ends, massaging into the scalp
- Comb through to ensure even distribution
- Cover with a silk bonnet or shower cap
- Leave on overnight (minimum 4–6 hours)
- Wash out in the morning with a gentle shampoo
Frequency: 1–2 times per week. Best for: Dry, damaged, bleached, or chemically treated hair.
Method 4: Scalp Treatment
- Part your hair into sections to expose the scalp
- Apply 3–5 drops directly to the scalp along each parting
- Massage in circular motions for 3–5 minutes
- Leave on for 30–60 minutes (or overnight)
- Wash out with a gentle shampoo
👉 See our full guide: Argan Oil Benefits for Scalp
Frequency: 1–2 times per week. Best for: Dry scalp, dandruff, hair growth support.
Method 5: Finishing Serum
- Start with completely dry, styled hair
- Dispense 1–2 drops into your palm
- Lightly smooth over the surface of the hair, focusing on frizzy areas and ends
- Avoid the roots to prevent greasiness
Frequency: As needed, daily. Best for: Frizz control, shine, flyaways.
Method 6: Pre-Shampoo Treatment (Pre-Poo)
- Apply 3–5 drops to dry hair before washing
- Work through mid-lengths and ends
- Leave on for 15–30 minutes
- Shampoo and condition as usual
Frequency: Before every wash, or weekly. Best for: Protecting hair during washing.
How Much Argan Oil to Use?
- Short hair: Leave-in 1–2 drops | Overnight 3–5 drops | Scalp 3–4 drops
- Medium hair: Leave-in 2–3 drops | Overnight 5–8 drops | Scalp 4–6 drops
- Long/thick hair: Leave-in 3–5 drops | Overnight 8–12 drops | Scalp 6–10 drops
Golden rule: Always start with less. You can always add more, but too much will weigh hair down.
Argan Oil for Different Hair Types
- Straight hair: Use as a finishing serum or light leave-in. 1–2 drops maximum.
- Wavy hair: Apply to damp hair to enhance wave definition and reduce frizz.
- Curly hair: Apply generously to damp hair to define curls. 3–5 drops.
- Coily / 4C hair: Use as an overnight mask or pre-poo treatment. 5–10 drops.
- Fine hair: Use sparingly as a finishing serum only. 1 drop maximum.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much — leads to greasy, weighed-down hair
- Applying to the roots — focus on mid-lengths and ends for leave-in use
- Using refined argan oil — always choose cold-pressed and unrefined
- Expecting overnight results — consistent use over 2–4 weeks delivers the best results
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use argan oil on my hair every day?
Yes — as a finishing serum or light leave-in, argan oil is suitable for daily use.
Should I apply argan oil to wet or dry hair?
Both work. Apply to damp hair for leave-in conditioning and heat protection. Apply to dry hair as a finishing serum or for overnight treatments.
Does argan oil make hair greasy?
Only if you use too much. Start with 1–2 drops and apply to mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the roots.
How long before I see results?
Most users notice improved texture, shine, and manageability within 1–2 weeks. For hair growth benefits, allow 8–12 weeks.
👉 Shop PURE BÉNI 100% Pure Organic Argan Oil — cold-pressed, unrefined, and certified organic from Morocco.