We’re looking into one of the most googled haircare ingredients in this month’s Into It feature: Argan Oil. Lauded as the key ingredient in our favourite Moroccanoil hair products, we’re looking into whether this hair oil is worth its weight in gold or whether it’s just a hot mess.

What is Argan Oil made of?

Argan Oil is a plant oil. It’s derived from the nuts of the argan tree, which is exclusively grown in Morocco. All you have to do is crack the nut to get the oil from within.

High in both Omega 6 and Omega 9, this is an incredibly potent ingredient in hair products. Combined, these two omegas can help to reduce inflammation and help improve the hair follicle’s permeability meaning that your other haircare products can work more effectively.

Traditionally this oil has been used in Morocco for years and years as part of their skincare routine, but it’s only recently seen an upward trend internationally, thanks mainly to Moroccanoil.

Labelled as liquid gold, Argan Oil really is a miracle ingredient when it comes to haircare. It is enriched with fatty acids and Vitamin E which gives the oil its nourishing and moisturising properties. It helps with controlling frizz, conditioning and giving your hair a healthy shine.

Hira, HQhair’s Pharmacist

What are the Argan Oil benefits for hair?

The main use you’re probably aware of is as a hair oil. This type of hair treatment has been popularised by the Moroccanoil treatment oil. A really lightweight oil, this hair treatment is perfect for taming curly or afro-caribbean, deeply nourishing and hydrating from root to tip.

Argan Oil shampoo and conditioner are now becoming much more common. Relying on the same nourishing properties of the hair oil, your shampoo and conditioner will harness the moisturising properties of Argan Oil and care for your hair at every touchpoint of your haircare routine.

Is Argan Oil for face a thing?

Although Argan Oil for hair is better know, there are loads of skincare products that also utilise the ingredient.

Due to its incredibly nourishing nature, you can use it on your face, lips and nails in a very similar way to as you’d use on your face. Keep an eye out for moisturisers and serums.

The Best Argan Oil Products

Now you’re convinced you need Argan Oil for hair, face, body, nails, lips… it’s time to add some to bag.

Whether you’re on the hunt for an Argan Oil shampoo and conditioner routine or you’re looking for something a lil more multipurpose, we’ve dropped some of our absolute faves below from brands like Moroccanoil, Shea Moisture, Beauty Works and The Ordinary. And, like always, these have all been tried and tested by HQ staff.