Shopping for skin and hair oils can be tough: You don’t want anything super heavy that will lead to breakouts or that will make your strands look greasy. Yuck. That being said, Moroccan oil has long been touted as a savior for treating dry and damaged hair, skin and nails, thanks to its conditioning properties. But is it all it’s cracked up to be—and will it leave you looking like an oily mess?

Ahead, experts discuss the benefits of Moroccan oil, how it works, and how you should be using it.

What is Moroccan oil?

Moroccan oil is made from the kernels of the argan nut, which is found inside the fruit of the argan tree, native to Morocco (hence the name). In order to get the oil, the fruit has to be dried (typically under the sun), and the nuts extracted, cracked, and pressed—so that the oil is released. Because of the small supply and that growing these types of trees are mostly limited to a single country, Moroccan oil is considered to be one of the rarer oils, which explains the hype and why it can be so expensive.

If you’ve heard of Moroccan oil, chances are, you’ve heard of argan oil. If you’re scratching your head, wondering what the difference between the two is, the answer is simple: They are basically the same thing. However, argan oil is a purer form, says Debra Jaliman, MD, a dermatologist based in New York City. Since it comes down to purity, Dr. Jaliman actually recommends selecting a product that claims to be 100 percent argan oil over a product that says Moroccan oil.

The Benefits of Moroccan oil

Moroccan oil is packed with omega fatty acids, which improve dry skin and add shine to damaged hair. The phenols in Moroccan oil maintain scalp health and help to balance the pH levels, which can combat oil, explains Dr. Jaliman. It also boasts vitamin E and linoleum acids to lightly moisturize your skin, soften dry patches, and even reduce acne scars, Dr. Jaliman adds. Even better? Moroccan oil is considered anti-aging, meaning it can help lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and prevent sun damage.

And while it’s safe to use on most skin types (and can even keep psoriasis and eczema at bay), Dr. Jaliman cautions against using it if you’re prone to breakouts. Moroccan oil contains oleic acid, a highly comedogenic ingredient (translation: it can clog pores), and could cause inflammatory acne. “If you are acne-prone and experience breakouts often, I would not use too much of any oil,” warns Dr. Jaliman. “However, this is a lightweight oil compared to other much heavier ones, which block pores.”

How To Use Moroccan oil

When it comes to using Moroccan oil for skin, a little can go a long way—so think, less is more. Apply a few droplets in the palm of your hand, and then use your fingers to massage the oil onto your face or onto cracked cuticles.

Because argan oil is lighter in comparison to other oils on the market, it can be a total game changer for dry, parched hair, as well—particularly when it comes to hydrating tresses and adding shine. Celebrity stylist Dmitiri Giannetos, who works with Camila Cabello and Meghan Trainor, loves working with Moroccan oil: “It gives a deep moisture to the hair compared to all the other oils without making the hair feel either heavy or greasy.” Use it on hair that has been towel dried, and work it into your ends in the morning before brushing, says Giannetos.

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Interested in reaping the moisturizing benefits of Moroccan oil, but don't know where to start? Keep scrolling for expert-approved picks for skin, hair, and nails.

Josie Maran 100 Percent Argan Oil

Dr. Jaliman’s pick, this 100 percent argan oil can be used for practically everything, including the face, hair, nails, and body. Also great: It could make your hair grow. “Products containing argan oil potentially help nourish the scalp and encourage dermal stem cells, therefore helping grow hair,” says Dr. Jaliman.

To Buy: Josie Maran 100 Percent Argan Oil

Moroccanoil Treatment Light

A go-to for Giannetos, this lightweight treatment contains nourishing argan oil and linseed extract (derived from flaxseed), which is a good source of alpha-linolenic acid, a fatty acid that helps improve hair health. This was actually the first hair oil Giannetos used as a stylist, and he has relied on it for years: “They have the right recipe for a lightweight oil that's also very hydrating at the same time.”

To Buy: Moroccanoil Treatment Light

OGX Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Extra Penetrating Hair Oil

A budget-friendly dupe for the Moroccanoil Treatment, Rachel Nazarian, MD, a New York-based dermatologist and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, likes this lightweight argan oil-infused product. Perfect for damaged strands, apply a small amount to damp, towel-dried hair to add shine.

To Buy: OGX Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Extra Penetrating Hair Oil

The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil

David Lortscher, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the CEO of Curology, is a fan of this versatile argan oil because it’s “entirely unrefined and has a natural scent.” Ideal for hair, skin, and nails, just apply 1-2 drops to the face, neck, hands, cuticles, and the backs of your arms to zap dryness. Bonus: The under-$10 price tag makes it an easy choice.

To Buy: The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil

ArtNaturals Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioner

Another pick from Dr. Nazarian, this leave-in conditioner repairs dry locks and split ends, stimulates hair growth, supports a healthy scalp, and keeps frizz at bay, thanks to a combination of argan oil, aloe vera, white willow bark, rosemary, and thyme. While it’s great for most hair types, be sure to use it sparingly to avoid a greasy look.

To Buy: ArtNaturals Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioner

Moroccanoil Body Soufflé

This decadent, whipped body moisturizer is infused with argan oil and shea butter to soften and smooth skin texture without feeling super oily. It also helps strengthen the skin barrier and offers long-lasting hydration, so you can say goodbye to scales and flakey skin.

To Buy: Moroccanoil Body Souffle

— Update: 11-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 15 “Beautiful” Ways To Use Argan Oil for Hair, Skin, and Nails from the website www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com for the keyword is moroccan oil good for nails.

I am always looking for products that I can use in my health and beauty routines that are natural and simple, and if they serve more than one purpose…even better!! If you want to de-clutter your cabinet and simplify your beauty routine, you might want to consider argan oil! It just might become your go-to beauty elixir for head-to-toe care. Argan oil is packed with antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins, which make it a healing powerhouse. It’s also incredibly moisturizing…perfect for skin, hair, and nails.

Argan oil, often referred to as “Moroccan argan oil,” comes from the fruit of the argan tree, which grows (you guessed it!) in Morocco. Each fruit from the argan tree contains a nut, which must be processed by hand to access the two or three oily kernels inside. It’s an extremely labor-intensive, time-consuming process (it takes 15-20 hours to produce just 1 liter of argan oil.) No wonder argan oil has earned the nickname “liquid gold!” But on the bright side, a little argan oil goes a long way which makes it much more cost-effective to buy.

When purchasing argan oil in stores or online, look for one that is labeled as 100% pure argan oil (or argania spinosa). You’ll also want to choose argan oil that is packaged in a dark bottle, which helps to extend its shelf life.

“Beautiful” Ways to Use Argan Oil

Hair

Overnight Moisturizing Treatment. Work a generous amount of argan oil into your hair from scalp to ends, and wrap with a shower cap or towel before bed. Wash it out in the morning for soft and smooth hair.

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Anti-frizz Serum. Simply put a few drops of oil in your palm, along with a few drops of essential oils for added benefits (use peppermint for dry hair, lavender for fine to normal, or lemon for golden highlights) and rub your hands together. Use your palms to smooth the serum onto your hair to tame frizz and add shine.

Itchy/Dry Scalp Treatment. Using a paint brush or your fingers, work a generous amount of argan oil into your scalp and allow to sit for around a half hour. Wash out when done and repeat as needed for relief from scalp dryness or itchiness.

Leave-in Conditioner. A nourishing leave-in “conditioner” of argan oil can be very beneficial for hair that is frequently styled with tools and products. After showering, apply a small amount of argan oil to wet hair, then dry and style as normal.

Beard Oil. Soften a scratchy beard by applying a drop or two of argan oil and combing it through. Argan oil can also be used to soothe irritated post-shave skin on the face and neck.

Skin

Facial Moisturizer. Using your hands, smooth a drop or two of argan oil onto the skin of your face and neck after cleansing. Let it soak in for a few minutes before applying makeup. Dabbing your face with a paper towel or toilet paper can help remove traces of excess oil.

Makeup Magic. Add a drop of argan oil to your liquid foundation, bronzer, or tinted moisturizer to achieve a luminous glow. The oil will also help to keep your foundation from drying out or looking cakey.

Lip Scrub. Mix a few drops of argan oil into a bit of white or brown sugar, and mix until it becomes a paste. Use the paste to gently exfoliate and hydrate dry or chapped lips as needed.

Remedy for Dry/Cracked Heels. Apply a small amount of argan oil to dry and cracked feet and heels before bed. Put on a pair of clean socks to avoid staining your sheets, wake up to soft and nourished feet!

Hydrating Toner. Add a few drops of argan oil to your favorite toner (I like to use rose water or witch hazel) for added hydration and a dewy glow.

Lotion Booster. Mix a few drops of argan oil into a handful of your favorite lotion before applying. This will add hydration, and will also help to reduce the appearance skin imperfections, such as stretch marks or scars, over time.

Razor Burn Serum. Simply apply a couple of drops to the razor burned areas. Argan oil contains Polyphenols and Sterols which help to alleviate skin allergies and irritations.

Nails

Nail Strengthener. Mix equal parts of argan oil and lemon juice and soak for 10-15 minutes. This treatment will limit nail breakage and give your nails a healthy glow.

Cuticle Treatment. Heal dry and cracked cuticles by massaging a drop or two of argan oil into your cuticles. Repeat as needed.

Nail Fungal Infection Remedy. Apply 1-2 drops of argan oil directly to the infected nails. This should be done at least 2-3 times per day to get the best results.

Do you have a favorite use for argan oil?

— Update: 11-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article The Benefits Of Argan Oil For Your Nails from the website arganoilshop.com for the keyword is moroccan oil good for nails.

Moroccan Argan oil is great for keeping your nails and cuticles moisturized and making them stronger.

Argan oil is loaded with Vitamin E, which is a potent antioxidant and a great moisturizer.

Before we dive deeper into the nail-boosting benefits of the oil, it’s important to understand the structure of our nails.

Nails and Cuticle Anatomy

The nail consists of three different parts:

1. Nail bed

This is the part that’s light pink in color, due to the blood circulation in your nail.

2. Nail root

The light crescent at the base of your nail is the nail root, which protects against infection.

3. Cuticle

The cuticle is the skin fold around your nail and consists of dead skin cells. Your cuticle has the task of protecting the living part of your nail.

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What damages the cuticles?

Your cuticles suffer the most from dehydration caused by cold, sun, warm dishwashing water or aggressive cleaning agents.

This causes cuticles to lose their natural oils.

The consequence of this is that your cuticles lose their flexibility.

They harden, easily split and get cracking edges that can easily become inflamed.

The condition of cuticles can be divided into three categories:

• Healthy cuticle, which is elastic and separate from the nail
• Dry cuticle (tears quickly, loose sheets, dead skin particles)
• Stuck cuticle (stuck on nail, inhibits nail growth, causes ridges)

How does a nail get damaged?

Because dry cuticles grow on nail, it pulls the cuticle with it as the nail grows.

The cuticle cannot really grow along with the nail and is therefore stretched too far and starts to crack.

Due to the tension on the soft and living part of the nail, deformations can occur on the nail.

This can cause the entire nail to become deformed.

It’s easy to see why cuticle care is the most important part of any nail treatment.

Properly hydrating your cuticles is “the key” for beautiful, strong and healthy nails.

“Nails are protected by cuticles. When cuticles become dehydrated, they dry out and crack. This leaves the rest of your nail exposed to inflammation.”

What does argan oil do for nails?

Argan oil hydrates, restores, protects and nourishes the nails, due to its high nutrient density.

The cuticles are intensely hydrated by using argan oil too.

Splitting, breaking and tearing of nails will eventually decrease as the nails become stronger and harder.

In addition, it also has an anti-fungal quality, which can prevent annoying nail problems.

Argan oil is therefore a perfect product if you want to care for your nails from A to Z.

How Argan oil improves nails

Argan oil contains several compounds that are essential for healthy fingernails.

Regular use will help to:

Moisturize nails

The main ingredient of the oil responsible for moisturising the nails is vitamin E.

An antioxidant, vitamin E also helps rejuvenate the cells that makes up our nails.

This makes them moist and healthy which is great in preventing diseases related to nails.

Strengthen nails

Vitamin E and several other compounds found in the oil help strengthen the nails, by conditioning the cuticles and preventing cracks.

EFAs also prevent nails from cracking.

They also prevent the formation of reddish skin around the cuticle.

Regenerate nails

The same compounds that help keep nails healthy also aid in regenerating them.

They fix damaged areas of the nails helping them grow back to their normal state.

Keep nails healthy

Because it makes the nails healthy and nourished, nails start looking healthy and vibrant.

The nails will be glowing and smooth as the nutrients from the argan oil keep the cells rejuvenated and nourished.

Vitamin E’s moisturizing benefits may also support nail health by preventing cracked cuticles and dry skin around the nail bed.

A 5-Step Nail Care Routine

You can use argan oil as a nail and cuticle cure, about once a week.

The step-by-step plan is as follows:

1. Make a mixture of two equal amounts of oil and lemon juice.
2. Soak your fingers for about 15 minutes in this bath of oil and lemon juice.
3. Rinse your hands and pat them dry with a towel until they are damp.
4. Apply two drops of argan oil on your palms and massage the oil on your nails and cuticles.
5. You can gently push back any cuticles that have stick to the nail with a wooden hoof stick.

Go one step further by applying a drop of argan oil to your nails and cuticles before you go to sleep.

The next morning you will notice that your nails are healthier and stronger.

Eventually your nails will break down and split less quickly – or no longer at all.

Recap of Argan Oil for Nails [ Infographic ]

Caring for your nails should be an important part of your beauty regimen!

Share this article to your friends so they can also take advantage of argan oil’s nail benefits!