Why Argan Oil Should be Your Next Go-To Hair Care Obsession

When it comes to hair care ingredients, argan oil can’t be beat! Favorably nicknamed “liquid gold”, argan oil is praised by many for its ability to hydrate, soften, and nourish even the driest of hair. But, these are just a few of the many ways argan oil can be used to promote hair health. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of this exceptional oil and why you absolutely need it in your life! 

What is Argan Oil?

Argan oil is a plant oil derived from the kernels of the argan tree, which grows exclusively in the south-west of Morocco. This natural oil has been used for centuries in Africa as both a culinary and cosmetic ingredient. Today, argan oil is most popularly known in Western countries for its incredible hair benefits.  

Packed full of powerful antioxidants, argan oil helps to hydrate hair, decrease frizz, defend against hair loss, and so much more. It’s also abundant in essential fatty acids like oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid that moisturize the scalp. This helps to alleviate scalp dryness, itchiness, and flaking, which is why we include it as a primary ingredient in our Lotus hydrating scalp oil. 

What are the Benefits of Using Argan Oil for Hair and Scalp?

1. Improves skin conditions, including those that impact the scalp like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, or seborrheic eczema. 
2. It is rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant that can help to coat and protect the hair shaft. This locks in moisture and prevents hair from becoming brittle. And studies have also found that Vitamin E can help to prevent hair loss, leaving hair looking thicker, fuller, and healthier. 
3. The unsaturated fatty acids in argan oil can protect hair from damage resulting from harmful hair practices like over-washing, heat styling, and dying. 

How do I Use Argan Oil on My Hair?

Thankfully, there are many different ways to add argan oil to your hair care routine. 

Using Argan Oil as a Scalp Treatment. If you suffer from a dry, itchy, or flaky scalp - or even if you simply want greater scalp hydration - we recommend using argan oil as a scalp treatment. Products like our Lotus scalp oil, which use argan oil as a central ingredient, are great to use for scalp treatments. You can use Lotus by, first, applying a few drops of oil to your hands. Then, part your hair and run the dropper through the scalp applying the oil directly on the problem area. Massage the oil until it’s absorbed (approx. 1-2 minutes). Let it sit for at least 20 minutes before washing it out or leave it on overnight as a scalp mask.

Using Argan Oil Shampoo. Many brands of shampoo are made with argan oil. However, you can easily incorporate argan oil into your favorite shampoo by simply pouring a typical amount of shampoo into your hand, adding one to two drops of argan oil, and mixing it together with your hands. Once this is done, you simply apply the shampoo in the shower as you normally would. 

Using Argan Oil as a Hair Mask. This can be done by, first, applying a generous coat of argan oil all over your dry hair, beginning at the scalp and working towards the roots (try to avoid completely drenching your hair.) Then, wrap your hair in a towel and let the oil soak for around 20 to 30 minutes. Finally, once the waiting is over, hop in the shower and perform your typical shampoo and conditioner routine. When your hair dries it should feel nourished, silky, and shiny. Or just grab your bottle of Lotus and follow the same steps for a super hydrating, antioxidant-rich hair mask that includes 12 other beneficial botanicals and fruits alongside argan oil!

Using Argan Oil as a Styling Product. A few drops of argan oil can be used directly on clean, dry hair to tame frizziness or even to provide protection from heat styling. The best method for this is to squeeze one to two drops of argan oil into your hands and gently rub them together. Then, apply a light coating of the oil to your hair (no need to rub it into the scalp, however.) Once this is done you can proceed to style your hair how you usually would. You can also use an argan oil-based spray product, spraying evenly on wet hair before drying or styling.