Find out what are the benefits of using argan oil for hair and how to use it in your hair care routine. Also check it out if you should use coconut oil, jojoba oil or argan oil for your hair type.
I had heard a lot about argan oil, especially the supposedly miraculous “Moroccan argan oil” and wanted to see what the fuss was all about.
So I decided to use argan oil religiously on my hair for 2 months straight.
I used the argan oil on my hair as a deep conditioning mask, as a leave-in treatment for shine, and also as a detangling oil before I brushed my hair.
The oil was quite lightweight so I could get away with using it multiple times. And also, I have 2b frizzy, wavy hair so the extra moisturization was welcome.
After using this oil for 60 days, I could see a noticeable difference in my hair. My tresses looked softer, shinier and had reduced breakage too.
Here’s what I found out about using argan oil for hair during my little experiment.
Argan Oil For Hair
Argan oil is extracted from the seeds of the argan trees in Morocco. While it’s a relatively new skincare/haircare product in the west, in Africa it’s long been revered as a holy grail of sorts.
In fact, its nickname in these parts of the world is “liquid gold”.
And this name fits argan oil really well as it’s full of important nutrients like essential fatty acids, antioxidants and squalene and tocopherols that helps hair retain moisture for long.
These do not just help increase moisture retention in hair but also reduce inflammation on the scalp and provide enough nourishment for hair follicles to kickstart the growth phase.
This oil also contains oleic acid and linoleic acid which act as occlusives (substances that prevent moisture loss) and coat the hair, making the strands soft and smooth.
Argan Oil For Hair: Benefits
I saw some real changes in my hair after using argan oil for a prolonged period. Here’s what I found out:
I Got TV Commercial-Like Softness And Shine
I used argan oil as a deep conditioner mixed with other carrier oils like jojoba and coconut oil a few hours before shampooing.
And the times I didn’t use it as a deep conditioner, I frequently applied argan oil to the ends of my hair when they were wet to seal in the moisture.
Argan oil contains a few essential polyunsaturated fatty acids called oleic acid and linoleic acid. These form a coating on your strands and prevent moisture present in hair from escaping.
So basically argan oil is a boon for anyone with high porosity hair as it’s an excellent sealant and will keep hair hydrated.
The result was that my hair didn’t get frizzy as often and the cuticles lay flat and smooth, increasing shine on my tresses.
I Wasn’t Scratching My Head Anymore
As it’s chock full of antioxidants, argan oil is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent as well. So when applied regularly to the scalp, it can help prevent certain symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, fungal infections, dandruff, etc.
You just need to make sure not to overdo the use of argan oil. This can cause clogged hair follicles and worsen the scalp situation.
I suggest leaving argan oil (or any oil for that matter) on your hair for more than 20-30 minutes if you have scalp issues.
The Sun Doesn’t Bother Me Anymore!
There are clinical studies that prove that the antioxidant levels in argan oil help reduce the oxidative stress on hair caused by the UV rays on sun.
This can also help color-treated hair retain the dye longer as the pigments do not undergo oxidation to the same level as before as argan oil helps shield your tresses from the worst of it.
So I found my hair color looking brighter and shinier after using argan oil regularly.
I also found research that proves that use of argan oil helps reduce damage on Caucasian hair after bleaching and coloring.
Less Breaking, More Growing!
While there is no direct evidence to show argan oil increases hair growth, this oil is abundant in vitamin E which is clinically proven to boost growth cycles.
Also, the argan oil reduces frizz by adding moisture to hair and preventing open cuticles. This in turn, decreased breakage, allowing hair to grow long instead of breaking off.
I also used 1-3 drops of argan oil while brushing out the knots and tangles from my hair, so this helped reduce friction-related breakage as well.
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How To Use Argan Oil For Hair
I strongly recommend not overusing any type of oil for hair, especially if you already have an oily scalp. So use argan oil in any ONE of the following ways in a day and not in all three ways.
Hot Oil, Deep Conditioning Treatment
When my hair is feeling too frizzy or dry, or when I have undergone a chemical or hair coloring treatment, I use argan oil as a deep conditioner.
I have 2b hair which is prone to dehydration so I mix in a few more oils like coconut oil and jojoba oil and massage it all over my scalp and hair.
I then use an electric hair cap or hot towel to help open hair cuticles, allowing the oil to soak into the strands. After 20-30 minutes of letting the oil soak in, I wash it off with shampoo.
If you do not want to do a hot oil treatment you can even leave it on your hair overnight. Just remember to use a silk hair cap to prevent oil from clogging pores and ruining your bedspreads.
Detangling Oil
My hair is very prone to knots and tangles especially at the ends. So after detangling using a wide toothed comb, I use a few drops of argan oil to add “slip” to the hair. Then I brush my hair like usual and the argan oil helps reduce friction and breakage.
Leave-In Moisturizer
After I shower and before drying my hair (I usually air dry or use a diffuser) I apply a few drops of argan oil on my tresses to seal the moisture inside.
As I have 2b hair I’ve found that it helps form the wave pattern on my tresses as well.
Argan oil has fatty acids that seal moisture inside, preventing hair from getting dry. So using it while hair is completely hydrated is a great idea!
Shine Enhancer
When my hair feels too dry at the ends or looks frizzy or poofy, I simply warm up a few drops of argan oil in the palms of my hands and run it through my hair.
This helps add shine to hair instantly and reduces frizz as well.
Just make sure not to use too much oil or your tresses will end up greasy and dull.
Related: Effects Of Castor Oil On 4c Hair
Which Is The Best Argan Oil For Hair?
After looking at several products in the market, I chose to buy the Cliganic Organic Argan Oil as its cold-pressed, hence retains all its nutrients. This particular oil is also USDA certified and cruelty-free.
Jojoba Oil Vs Argan Oil For Hair: Which Is Better For Hair?
Both jojoba oil and argan oil offer numerous benefits for hair, but the "better" option depends on individual hair type and needs. Here are some key points to consider:
- Jojoba Oil: It closely resembles the natural sebum produced by the scalp, making it an excellent moisturizer and scalp conditioner. It helps regulate oil production, making it beneficial for oily scalps. Jojoba oil can also help reduce frizz, promote hair growth, and add shine to the hair.
- Argan Oil: It is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, making it a highly nourishing and hydrating oil for the hair. Argan oil helps moisturize and soften the hair, reduce frizz and flyaways, and enhance shine. It also has heat protection properties and can aid in repairing damaged hair.
In summary, both oils have their own unique benefits. Jojoba oil is ideal for those with oily scalps or in need of a lightweight moisturizer, while argan oil is great for providing deep hydration and addressing various hair concerns. It's best to consider your specific hair type, needs, and preferences when deciding which oil to incorporate into your hair care routine.
Argan Oil Vs Coconut Oil For Hair: Which Is Better For Hair?
Argan oil and coconut oil are popular natural oils known for their hair care benefits. Here's a comparison to help you decide:
- Argan Oil: It is lightweight, easily absorbed, and rich in nutrients like fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants. Argan oil moisturizes and nourishes the hair, reduces frizz, enhances shine, and helps repair and protect damaged hair. It is especially beneficial for dry, brittle, or damaged hair.
- Coconut Oil: It is a heavier oil that can provide intense moisturization and deep conditioning to the hair. Coconut oil helps retain moisture, reduces protein loss, promotes hair growth, and adds shine. It is particularly useful for those with thick or coarse hair, as well as those dealing with issues like split ends and hair breakage.
Ultimately, the choice between argan oil and coconut oil depends on your hair type, texture, and specific concerns. Argan oil is lighter and suitable for various hair types, while coconut oil is thicker and may work better for those with thick or dry hair. It's best to experiment and see which oil works best for your hair's needs.
Can I Use Argan Oil for 4C Natural Hair?
Yes, absolutely! Argan oil can be highly beneficial for 4C natural hair. This hair type tends to be tightly coiled, prone to dryness, and requires extra moisture and nourishment. Argan oil is known for its excellent moisturizing properties and ability to penetrate the hair shaft, making it a great choice for 4C hair.
Argan oil can help hydrate and soften the hair, reduce frizz and breakage, promote shine, and enhance manageability. It can also assist in restoring and maintaining the hair's elasticity and overall health. When using argan oil on 4C natural hair, it's recommended to apply a small amount to damp or dry hair, focusing on the ends and areas that need extra hydration.
FAQs about Argan Oil For Hair
Can I use argan oil on my hair everyday?
Argan oil is more lightweight than coconut oil or castor oil so it won’t instantly make hair greasy. But regular use can cause product buildup over time, especially at the roots and cause issues like oiliness, dandruff, lack of hair growth, etc.
Do I put argan oil on wet or dry hair?
Does argan oil make hair grow?
Can I apply argan oil before straightening my hair?
Final Thoughts On Using Argan Oil For Hair
Argan oil is full of nutrients like vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids and more. It also contains linoleic and oleic acid that help retain moisture in your hair, preventing dryness.
But what’s more argan oil has also got anti-inflammatory properties which makes it fantastic for scalp issues like dermatitis or dandruff.
I used argan oil regularly for 8 weeks and it has left my 2b hair soft, shiny, and healthy.
There is a remarkable reduction in frizziness and breakage and I could also find that my hair grew faster when I was using argan oil than before.
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