Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil)

ar-GAN-ee-uh spin-OH-suh

INCI: Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil

Conditioning Agent, Emollient 9/10 Safety CG ApprovedClean Natural Vegan

What Is Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil)?

Argan Oil is a luxurious oil extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree, native to Morocco. It is rich in oleic acid, linoleic acid, vitamin E, and polyphenols. Argan oil is prized for its ability to deeply nourish and add shine to hair without leaving a heavy, greasy residue.

Source: Argan tree (Argania spinosa) kernels, native to Morocco

Origin: Natural

Also known as: Argan Oil, Moroccan Oil, Moroccan Argan Oil

What Does Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil) Do to Your Hair?

Argan Oil penetrates the hair shaft to deliver fatty acids and vitamin E that nourish and strengthen from within. It smooths the cuticle layer, reducing frizz, flyaways, and split end appearance. The lightweight molecular structure means it absorbs quickly without weighing hair down or leaving an oily residue.

Best For

All hair types, frizzy hair, dry hair, curly hair (3A-4C), color-treated hair

Not Recommended For

Very fine, limp hair if applied in excess

Concentration Matters

1-10%

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight
Color-treated: Safe

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Approved
CG Approved
LCO Method
LOC Method

Safety & Regulation

9/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Extremely safe with no known adverse effects. Cold-pressed, unrefined argan oil retains the most nutrients. Very rare allergic reactions have been reported in individuals with tree nut allergies, though argan is not technically a tree nut.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA permits use in cosmetics and as a food ingredient. No restrictions on concentration.

EWG Score: 1/10

HairAide Verdict

Argan Oil is one of the most versatile and universally beneficial hair oils available. It works for nearly every hair type and concern, from frizz control to damage repair. HairAide considers it a must-have ingredient and recommends looking for it high on ingredient lists in serums and leave-in treatments.

Products That Contain Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil)

Hair oils, serums, conditioners, hair masks, leave-in treatments

Alternatives to Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil)

If you want to avoid Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil), look for products with these ingredients instead:

Jojoba Oil, Marula Oil, Camellia Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil) safe for hair?

Yes, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil) has a safety rating of 9/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Extremely safe with no known adverse effects. Cold-pressed, unrefined argan oil retains the most nutrients. Very rare allergic reactions have been reported in individuals with tree nut allergies, though argan is not technically a tree nut.

Is Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil) bad for curly hair?

Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil) is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.

Is Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil) CG-method approved?

Yes, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil) is approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil)?

Some alternatives to Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan Oil) include: Jojoba Oil, Marula Oil, Camellia Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil

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