How to Use Argan Oil: A Complete Guide for Hair, Skin & Nails

Argan oil, often referred to as “liquid gold,” has been treasured in Morocco for centuries as a natural beauty oil for hair, skin, and nails. Extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, which is native to southwestern Morocco, pure Moroccan argan oil is naturally rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants.

From dry, frizzy hair and split ends to dull skin and brittle nails, argan oil can be a versatile addition to your everyday beauty routine. But getting the best results depends on how and how much you use.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to use argan oil effectively, including the best application methods, how much to apply, and practical tips for incorporating it into your daily routine. Whether you’re new to argan oil or looking to make better use of it, you’ll find everything you need to get the most from every drop.

Argan oil can be incorporated into a daily beauty routine in several ways, particularly for hair, skin, and nail care:

• Moisturizing dry and damaged hair and helping improve its softness

• Reducing frizz and flyaways while leaving hair looking smoother

• Adding natural shine to dull or dry-looking hair

• Conditioning dry skin and helping soften rough areas

• Nourishing the skin with naturally occurring vitamin E and fatty acids

• Softening cuticles and keeping the area around the nails moisturized

• Caring for dry elbows, knees, and heels by helping replenish moisture

• Smoothing the appearance of split ends and protecting the look of dry hair

There are several ways to use argan oil in your hair-care routine, and the best method depends on your hair type and your specific goals — whether you want to control frizz, enhance shine, moisturize dry strands, or condition damaged ends.

From a lightweight leave-in treatment to a deeper conditioning treatment, argan oil can be incorporated into your routine in different ways. Below, we’ll explore practical methods for using argan oil to hydrate, smooth, and nourish your hair, along with tips for getting the best results.

Applying argan oil to damp hair is one of the easiest ways to incorporate it into your hair-care routine, especially after washing. Once you’ve showered, gently towel-dry your hair to remove excess water. Place 2–3 drops of argan oil in your palms, rub your hands together, and lightly smooth the oil through the mid-lengths and ends. Avoid applying too much near the roots, particularly if your hair tends to become oily.

Used this way as a leave-in treatment, argan oil can help condition the hair, reduce the appearance of frizz, and leave strands looking smoother and shinier as they dry. It can also help reduce the dry, rough feel that often follows washing.

If you're wondering whether to apply argan oil to wet, damp, or dry hair, both damp and dry hair can work. Damp hair can make it easier to distribute a small amount of oil evenly, while dry hair is useful for smoothing flyaways and adding shine as a finishing step.

Argan oil can also be used on dry hair as a finishing treatment throughout the day, not only after washing. If you notice frizz, static, flyaways, or dry-looking ends between washes, place a single drop of argan oil between your fingertips and gently smooth it over the surface of your hair, concentrating on the ends.

This technique is particularly useful for frizzy hair and dry ends, as a small amount of oil can help smooth flyaways and leave the hair looking softer and more polished without the need to wash or restyle it.

For curly hair, argan oil can also be used sparingly to smooth the outer layer of the hair and enhance the appearance of curls. Start with a very small amount and add more only if needed, as using too much oil can make curls feel heavy or greasy.

Using argan oil before shampooing can be a simple way to condition the hair before washing. About 30 minutes before your shower, apply a small amount of oil from the mid-lengths to the ends, paying extra attention to areas that feel particularly dry or brittle.

This pre-shampoo treatment is especially useful for dry or damaged-looking hair, as the oil coats the strands and helps leave them feeling softer and more conditioned after washing. You can adjust the amount according to your hair's length and thickness—start with a few drops and add more if necessary.

For a pre-wash treatment, around 4–6 drops may be enough for many hair types, although longer or thicker hair may require a little more. Avoid using so much that the hair becomes heavily saturated, as excess oil can make it more difficult to wash out.

An overnight argan oil treatment can be a nourishing option for very dry or coarse hair. Before going to bed, apply a small amount of argan oil through the mid-lengths and ends, concentrating on areas that feel especially dry. Cover your hair with a shower cap or wrap it in an old towel to help protect your pillow, then shampoo your hair thoroughly the following morning.

This method can be used as a deep conditioning treatment or a simple alternative to a hair mask, giving the oil plenty of time to condition the strands and leave them feeling softer and smoother. However, more oil does not necessarily mean better results. Start with a modest amount and adjust it according to your hair's length, thickness, and texture.

For most people, an overnight treatment is best used occasionally rather than every night. Fine or easily weighed-down hair may need an even smaller amount, while thicker or coarser hair can generally tolerate more.

Knowing how to use argan oil on your face starts with using a small amount. After cleansing, place 1–2 drops between your palms, gently warm the oil, and press it into your skin. Focus on areas that tend to feel dry, such as the cheeks, forehead, and chin, while avoiding the immediate eye area if it feels sensitive.

Argan oil can be used on its own as a lightweight moisturizing step or applied after your regular moisturizer to help soften and condition the skin. It can be particularly useful for dry skin, thanks to its naturally occurring fatty acids and vitamin E.

If you have oily or combination skin, you can still try argan oil, but use a very small amount and see how your skin responds. Although argan oil is often described as non-comedogenic, individual skin can react differently, so it’s sensible to patch-test a new product before applying it more widely. There is also limited evidence that argan oil directly regulates excess sebum production, so it is better described as a lightweight conditioning oil rather than an oil-balancing treatment.

Argan oil can be a simple addition to your body-care routine, particularly for areas that tend to become dry or rough. After showering, while your skin is still slightly damp, apply a few drops to your arms, legs, and torso, then gently massage it into the skin. Applying it to damp skin can help leave the skin feeling soft and moisturized without requiring a large amount of oil.

As part of a broader argan oil skincare routine, it can also be used on the hands. Applying a small amount regularly can help keep dry hands feeling softer, particularly after frequent handwashing or exposure to cold, dry weather.

If you prefer lightweight oils over traditional creams or lotions, argan oil can also serve as a simple natural moisturizing option for the body. Start with a small amount and add more only where needed to avoid leaving the skin feeling overly oily.

Some areas of the body — like elbows, knees, and heels — tend to get rougher and drier than the rest of the skin. For these spots, apply a slightly more generous amount of argan oil directly and massage it in until fully absorbed, repeating daily if needed until the roughness improves.

This targeted approach is one of the most practical ways to apply argan oil to dry areas of the face and body, since concentrated dry patches may benefit from more product and more frequent application than the rest of the skin.

Brittle nails and dry cuticles can benefit from regular moisturizing care. Simply place a few drops of argan oil on your fingertips and gently massage it into each nail, nail bed, and surrounding cuticle. Allow the oil to absorb for a few minutes without rinsing.

Using argan oil regularly can help keep nails and cuticles moisturized, while the nourishing oil helps soften dry skin around the nails. Rather than claiming that it directly strengthens nails or prevents splitting, it is more accurate to describe it as a conditioning treatment that can help improve the appearance and feel of dry, brittle nails and cuticles.

For best results, apply a small amount before bed a few times a week, giving the oil plenty of time to remain on the nails and surrounding skin overnight.

One of the most common questions is how much argan oil should I use? The answer depends on where you’re applying it and the condition of your hair or skin.

For hair, 2–3 drops are usually enough for everyday use on the mid-lengths and ends. For a pre-wash or overnight treatment, you can use around 4–6 drops, adjusting the amount based on your hair’s length, thickness, and texture.

For the face, 1–2 drops are generally enough to moisturize the skin without leaving it feeling overly oily. For the body, hands, or particularly dry areas such as elbows and heels, you may need a little more, depending on the size and dryness of the area.

With pure argan oil, it’s best to start with a small amount and add more only when necessary. Using too much can leave the hair or skin feeling greasy without providing additional benefits.

Wondering how often you should use argan oil? For many people, it can be incorporated into a daily hair or skincare routine, provided the skin and hair tolerate it well. On hair, a small amount can be used as a leave-in treatment or finishing oil, while on skin, it can be applied as part of a morning or evening moisturizing routine.

If you’re wondering whether you can use argan oil every day, the answer is generally yes for most people. However, individual skin and hair types respond differently. Start with a small amount and pay attention to how your skin and hair feel. If you notice excessive oiliness, buildup, irritation, or weighed-down hair, reduce the amount or use it less frequently.

More intensive treatments, such as overnight hair treatments or pre-wash oil treatments, are usually better suited to occasional use, such as once or twice a week. Fine hair may require less frequent application, while thicker or drier hair may tolerate more.

Ultimately, the best frequency depends on your hair type, skin type, and how your body responds to the oil. Starting with a small amount and adjusting your routine as needed is the simplest approach.

Not all argan oil is the same, and understanding the differences can help you choose the right product for your needs. 100% pure argan oil generally means the product contains only argan oil, without added fragrances, fillers, or other oils. However, it’s still important to check the ingredient list and product labeling before buying.

Cosmetic argan oil is typically made from raw, unroasted argan kernels and is intended for use on the hair, skin, and nails. It usually has a light texture and a mild, characteristic scent. Culinary argan oil, by contrast, is produced from roasted argan kernels, giving it a darker color and a distinctive toasted, nutty flavor. It is primarily intended for cooking and food preparation.

When choosing argan oil, always check the label, ingredients, and intended use to make sure you’re purchasing the appropriate type. For beauty applications, look specifically for argan oil intended for cosmetic use and avoid products containing unnecessary additives if you want a pure oil.

With so many argan oil products available, knowing what to look for can help you choose a high-quality option. Start by checking the ingredient list. If you’re looking for pure argan oil, the ingredients should list argan oil alone, without added fragrances, fillers, or other oils. Authentic argan oil typically has a light golden to amber appearance and a mild, characteristic nutty scent.

Origin is another useful factor to consider. Argan trees are native to Morocco, where argan oil has a long history of traditional production and use. If you specifically want Moroccan argan oil, check that the product clearly identifies Morocco as its origin rather than relying only on marketing terms such as “Moroccan-inspired.”

If you prefer organic argan oil, look for a recognized organic certification on the packaging. For storage, dark or opaque bottles are generally preferable because they help protect the oil from light. It’s also worth checking the packaging for clear ingredient information, the intended use, and appropriate storage instructions.

Finally, be cautious with products that have vague labeling or make unusually broad claims. An unusually low price does not automatically mean that an oil is diluted, but comparing the ingredient list, quantity, origin, certification, and packaging can help you make a more informed choice.

1. What is argan oil used for?

2. How do you use argan oil for hair?

3. Can I use argan oil on my face?

4. How many drops of argan oil should I use?

5. Should I apply argan oil to wet or dry hair?

6. Can I use argan oil every day?

7. Is argan oil good for dry hair?

8. Is argan oil good for skin?

9. Can I leave argan oil in my hair overnight?

10. Where does argan oil come from?

Argan oil is a versatile natural oil commonly used to moisturize and condition hair, skin, and nails. It can help reduce the appearance of frizz, add shine to dry-looking hair, hydrate dry skin, soften cuticles, and condition rough areas such as elbows and heels.

Rub 2–3 drops of argan oil between your palms, then gently smooth it through damp or dry hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Use it as a daily leave-in treatment, a pre-wash treatment, or an occasional overnight treatment depending on your hair type and needs.

Argan oil can be used on the face as a lightweight moisturizing and conditioning oil. Apply 1–2 drops to clean skin and gently massage it in, avoiding direct contact with the eyes. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, start with a small amount and patch-test first, as individual skin can respond differently to facial oils.

The amount depends on where you’re applying it: 2–3 drops for hair, 1–2 drops for the face, and 3–5 drops for the body or dry areas such as elbows and heels. Since pure argan oil is highly concentrated, start with a small amount and add more only if needed.

Both methods can work well. Applying argan oil to damp hair after showering helps distribute it evenly through the strands, while applying a small amount to dry hair throughout the day can help smooth frizz, tame flyaways, and add shine between washes.

Argan oil can be incorporated into a daily hair or skincare routine when used in small amounts. Apply a few drops to the hair or skin and adjust the frequency according to how your hair and skin respond. If you notice excessive shine, greasiness, buildup, or irritation, reduce the amount or use it less frequently.

Yes, argan oil can be a useful conditioning oil for dry hair. Its naturally occurring fatty acids and vitamin E can help soften the hair, reduce the appearance of frizz, and add shine. Apply a small amount as a leave-in treatment to the mid-lengths and ends, or use it occasionally as a pre-wash or overnight treatment for extra conditioning.

Argan oil can be a useful moisturizing oil for many skin types. It helps soften and condition dry skin, while its naturally occurring fatty acids and vitamin E can support the skin’s moisture barrier. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, use a small amount and patch-test first, as individual skin can respond differently to facial oils.

Yes, leaving argan oil in your hair overnight is a great way to deeply nourish dry or damaged strands. Apply a generous amount, cover your hair with a shower cap or towel to protect your pillow, then wash it out in the morning.