What it is

Oil from the kernels of the Moroccan argan tree, rich in oleic and linoleic acid with tocopherols. Many "Moroccan oil" products are mostly silicone with a little argan oil, so check the label.

How it works

It is mainly a surface emollient. In the lab it scavenged free radicals and pre-treatment reduced protein loss after oxidative damage. Sharifi 2022

What the studies show

Argan pretreatment significantly cut protein loss in swatches after oxidative damage, and oil deposits remained after washing. Sharifi 2022
A 2022 systematic review found no significant evidence that argan oil improves hair growth or quality. Phong 2022
No randomised head-to-head human trial of hair oils exists (see oils and hair).

How it's used in studies

There is no clinical dosing. In the lab study the oil was applied to tresses before oxidative treatment.

Side effects and safety

Contact allergy is rare, with case reports. Otherwise low risk.

Bottom line

A fine finishing oil for shine and smoothness, but do not expect repair. A cheaper silicone serum or another oil may perform similarly. Authenticity of retail argan oil is also a concern. We are not very sure of any benefit beyond surface feel.

Studies 2

Sharifi N et al. Argan oil as a pretreatment of human hair before exposure to oxidative damage. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022

Design: in vitro
Who: human hair, laboratory

Tested: argan oil pretreatment before oxidative damage

Result: Argan oil pretreatment reduced protein loss after oxidative damage in a small lab study.

Read the study ↗

Phong C et al. Coconut, castor, and argan oil for hair in skin of color patients: a systematic review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022

Design: systematic review
People: 22
Who: 22 articles

Tested: coconut, castor and argan oil for hair

Result: Weaker evidence that castor oil improves luster and no strong evidence for growth.