Of all the hair care oilsArgan oil is perhaps the most appreciated. Used for centuries by the Berbers of the Atlas area for both cosmetic, culinary and medicinal purposes, it has powerful softening and beautifying effects.

Leaves hair soft, shiny and hydrated, protects it against heat and helps control annoying frizz. Find out how to use it to get the most out of it.

Argan oil for hair: which one to choose

He argan oil It comes from the fruit of a thorny tree native to the southwest coast of Morocco known as “the tree of life” (Argania spinosa).

Its production continues to be, in many cases, artisanal. The fruits that have fallen to the ground are collected, left to dry in the sun and opened to obtain the seed or almond. Subsequently, women’s cooperatives carry out the extraction of the oil following a meticulous manual process. This traditional and laborious procedure makes argan oil one of the most expensive oils today.

There are also semi-industrial extraction methods (in which mechanical presses are used to extract the oil) and others in which chemical solvents are used that can alter the properties of the oil. It suits make sure what the extraction method has been before purchasing argan oil and discard those that have been made with solvents.

On the other hand, it must be taken into account that there are two main types of argan oilthe one for culinary use, which is made by toasting the seeds before grinding them and squeezing them to obtain the oil, and the one for cosmetic use, made with unroasted seedswhich is what we are talking about here.

Cosmetic argan oil is light golden yellow color and a subtle aroma similar to that of walnut or sesame. It does not stain and absorbs quickly.

Argan oil for hair: what it is for

Argan oil has a high content of fatty acids and tocopherol (vitamin E)with antioxidant properties.

Has moisturizing, softening and nourishing effectand is especially suitable for strengthen and restore shine to dry, brittle or dull hair. In fact, Berber women in southern Morocco use it to care for their hair and repair damage caused by inclement weather.

It also helps control frizz and avoid and repair split ends. It provides shine to the hair and gives it a beautiful and healthy appearance.

Likewise, it is believed that some of the compounds it contains, such as phenols, can stimulate the scalp and strengthen hair follicles, thereby promote healthy hair growth.

On the other hand, it serves as hair protector against heat of dryers, straighteners or other styling tools.

In addition to hair, Argan oil is also very beneficial for skin carethanks to its healing, regenerating and protective properties. It is an excellent remedy for combat premature aging and to care for dry skin.

Argan oil for hair: How to use it

You can find the pure argan oil in herbalists and specialized stores or as an ingredient in a multitude of hair care products.

Although it is an oil suitable for all hair types, its great moisturizing effect makes it more suitable for those who have dry or rough hair. It is best to use it in moderation to avoid greasing the hair.

To use it as heat protector or like leave-in conditioneryou just have to apply a small amount on wet hair (on mid-lengths and ends) before drying and combing.

If your goal is control frizzrub a few drops of argan oil between your hands and apply it on dry and styled hair.

Aromatologist Antonia Jover recommends a mask for dry hair made with 3 tablespoons of argan oil and 3 drops of ylang ylang essential oil (which acts as a hair tonic and skin regenerator). You just have to mix it well, apply it on dry hair with a gentle massage on the scalp and extending it towards the ends. Leave it on for at least an hour before rinsing it. You will notice how your hair is stronger and full of shine.