Argan Oil: Benefits, Uses, Drawbacks & Everything You Need To Know

What Is Argan Oil?

Argan oil is extracted from the kernels of the Argania spinosa tree, native to Morocco. Often called "liquid gold", it has been used for centuries by Berber women for its extraordinary nourishing properties for hair, skin, and nails.

At PURE BENI, our argan oil is certified organic and cold-pressed to preserve its full concentration of vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and plant sterols.

What Are the Benefits of Argan Oil?

Argan oil is one of the most nutrient-dense carrier oils available. Here's what makes it exceptional:

For Hair

• Repairs split ends and breakage — the fatty acids penetrate the hair shaft to restore strength
• Adds brilliant shine — without the greasy residue of heavier oils
• Heat protection — creates a protective barrier before blow-drying or straightening
• Tames frizz and flyaways — even in humid conditions
• Nourishes the scalp — reduces dryness, flakiness, and irritation
• Supports hair growth — by improving scalp health and reducing breakage

For Skin & Face

• Deep hydration — absorbs quickly without clogging pores
• Anti-aging — vitamin E and ferulic acid visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Fades dark spots and scars — promotes an even, radiant complexion
• Strengthens the skin barrier — protects against environmental stressors
• Soothes inflammation — ideal for sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin

Is Argan Oil Good for Your Face?

Yes — argan oil is one of the best facial oils available. With a comedogenic rating of 0, it is non-pore-clogging and suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. Its lightweight texture absorbs rapidly, leaving skin soft and luminous without greasiness.

Apply 2 drops to slightly damp skin morning or evening, after cleansing and before SPF (morning) or as the final step of your evening routine.

Curious how it compares to other facial oils? Read our guide: Argan Oil vs Rosehip Oil — Which Is Better For Your Skin?

What Are the Drawbacks of Argan Oil?

Argan oil is exceptionally well tolerated, but there are a few points to consider:

• Price: Genuine cold-pressed organic argan oil is more expensive than refined alternatives — beware of cheap products diluted with mineral oil
• Nut allergy risk: Argan comes from a tree nut; people with tree nut allergies should patch test or consult a doctor first
• Shelf life: 12–18 months. Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
• Heavy application: A little goes a long way — using too much can leave hair or skin feeling greasy
• Not all argan oils are equal: Look for 100% pure, cold-pressed, unrefined oil with no additives

What Tree Produces Argan Oil?

Argan oil comes from the Argania spinosa tree, an ancient species that grows almost exclusively in the Souss-Massa region of southwestern Morocco. These trees can live up to 200 years and are so ecologically important that the region was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1998.

The extraction process is traditionally done by hand by Berber women cooperatives — cracking the hard nuts to extract the kernels, then cold-pressing them to yield the precious oil. It takes approximately 30–40 kg of argan fruit to produce just 1 litre of oil, which explains its value.

Argan Oil for Hair — How to Use It

• As a leave-in treatment: 2–3 drops on damp ends after washing — no rinsing needed
• As a heat protectant: Apply before blow-drying or straightening
• As a pre-shampoo mask: Apply generously to dry hair, leave 30–60 minutes, then shampoo out
• As a scalp treatment: Massage a few drops into the scalp to reduce dryness and flakiness
• As a finishing oil: 1 drop on styled hair for shine and frizz control

Also read: Argan Oil vs Rosehip Oil for Hair — Which Is Better?

Argan Oil vs Other Oils

Wondering how argan oil compares to other popular oils? Here's a quick overview:

• Argan vs Rosehip: Argan is better for hair and heat protection; rosehip is richer in vitamin C and better for hyperpigmentation
• Argan vs Jojoba: Jojoba mimics sebum and is ideal for oily skin; argan is more nourishing for dry hair and mature skin
• Argan vs Coconut: Argan is lighter and non-comedogenic; coconut oil is heavier and can clog pores for some skin types

How to Choose a Quality Argan Oil

• ✓ Cold-pressed — preserves vitamin E and fatty acids
• ✓ 100% pure — no mineral oil, silicones, or synthetic additives
• ✓ Organic certified — no pesticides or chemical treatments
• ✓ Unrefined — retains its natural golden colour and light nutty scent
• ✓ Sourced from Morocco — authentic origin matters

Our PURE BENI Organic Argan Oil meets all of these criteria — available in 10 ml, 30 ml, and 100 ml.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of argan oil?

Argan oil repairs hair, adds shine, protects from heat, deeply hydrates skin, reduces fine lines, fades dark spots, and strengthens the skin barrier. It is rich in vitamin E, omega-6, omega-9, and plant sterols.

What are the drawbacks of argan oil?

The main drawbacks are its higher price point (due to the labour-intensive extraction), a risk for people with tree nut allergies, and a shelf life of 12–18 months. Using too much can leave hair or skin feeling greasy.

Is it good to put argan oil on your face?

Yes. Argan oil has a comedogenic rating of 0, meaning it won't clog pores. It absorbs quickly, hydrates deeply, and is suitable for all skin types including oily and acne-prone skin.

What tree produces argan oil?

Argan oil comes from the Argania spinosa tree, native to the Souss-Massa region of Morocco. These ancient trees can live up to 200 years and are protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.