I've started using argan oil in my hair and it's never looked shinier—here's what to know

For years argan oil for hair has had the nickname 'liquid gold', and once you take a look at the benefits, it's easy to see why. Not only does argan oil leave hair looking next-level shiny, but it also feeds hair the nourishing nutrients to keep it growing at its healthiest.

And I'll admit, with the amount of hair oils out there, I'd sort of forgotten about argan oil. While it was all anyone in the hair world could talk about a few years ago, the rise of rosemary oil and other TikTok trends means argan oil fell off my radar for a while. That was until I spoke to the experts, anyway. Now, I make sure argan oil is in as many of my hair products as possible.

Extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, which is native to Morocco, argan oil is extremely rich in beneficial nutrients, including fatty acids and vitamin E, making it the ideal hair conditioner. It can even help to treat split ends, tame flyaways and even act as an oil for hair growth by preventing breakage.

Want to reap all the benefits of argan oil? Keep scrolling to discover all its different uses for hair and our edit of the best products. 

What are the benefits of argan oil for hair?

"Argan oil, like most oils, holds a lot of benefits for hair. It can increase shine, moisturise the hair, helps prevent breakage, and can even promote hair growth," says Tyler Moore, expert stylist at Live True London. 

Leading Hair Transplant Surgeon Dr Furqan Raja of The Private Clinic says argan oil is often treated as a miracle cure but should not be used as a remedy for hair loss. "It's really important to visit your doctor if you are experiencing hair loss. It could be a sign of an underlying condition. However, argan oil will not harm your hair and can help make it look healthy, shiny and more voluminous," Dr Raja explains. 

But Dr Raja explains that argan oil can help strengthen hair and a healthy scalp. "It won't stop hair loss but can make hair healthier. The antioxidants can help reduce damage. If hair is moisturised and full of vitamins, it is less likely to break." The best part? The vitamin E in argan oil can make hair softer. "Vitamin E can help keep hair free from damage, preventing split ends and breakage," says Dr Raja.

How to use argan oil for hair

"Argan oil can be used in many different ways. You can use a product with argan oil as an active ingredient, but be sure to make sure there is enough in the product for it to be effective," explains Moore.

"You can also use it directly on the hair as a mask, styling oil, or scalp treatment. I especially love recommending applying argan oil along the scalp to be massaged in and then worked down to the ends of the hair, to make the most out of the benefits. This can be done before washing and then washed out with shampoo," explains Moore.

How often should you use argan oil for hair?

"Depending on how often you wash your hair or your hair type, I generally recommend oil treatments like this once or twice a week. If your hair is thick and/or dry, you might benefit from more frequent treatments. I recommend [using a] super-nourishing mask such as FUL Intense Moisture Mask, followed by an oil, such as the Dr Organic Pure Moroccan Argan Oil," suggests Moore.

How to use argan oil as a scalp treatment

"I especially love recommending applying argan oil along the scalp to be massaged in and then worked down to the ends of the hair, to make the most out of the benefits. This can be done before washing and then washed out with shampoo," explains Moore.

"I also recommend using it as a scalp treatment to reduce inflammation. Do not leave it on for more than 20 minutes, as leaving any oil on the scalp or a long time can lead to sensitivity itself," says Dr Raja. 

How to use argan oil as a pre-shampoo treatment

Apply a thick layer of argan oil over your hair. Then, apply to the ends and comb it through your hair, gradually taking it up towards the roots. By doing this before you wash your hair, you won't have to compromise on volume because your shampoo will take out the weight of the oil. Follow up by using a shampoo with argan oil for maximum benefits. 

"I suggest using it on the hair and scalp for about 20 minutes before washing it out. It’s ideal to warm the oil before applying it on the hair to allow the molecules to penetrate the hair," Dr Raja explains. 

How to use argan oil for split ends

Thanks to the vitamin E content in argan oil, frayed hair shafts and split ends are repaired. Meanwhile, omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids strengthen and fortify your hair.

How to use argan oil as a styling product

Want to know how to get a glossy up 'do? Argan oil. Rub a small amount through your hands and then run through the ends of your hair. With the remaining oil left on your hands, gently smooth over any fly-aways.

How to use argan oil as a hair mask

“Try using it as a conditioner on the mid to end lengths of hair. You can use it as a hydrating hair mask to help damaged hair as the vitamin E in argan oil can help strengthen hair," says Dr Raja.

Shop the best argan oil for hair products