Argan Oil: What It Is and How to Use It

Argan oil is a plant oil pressed from the kernels of the argan tree, Argania spinosa, which grows in south-west Morocco.

What is argan oil made of?

Argan oil is mostly oleic and linoleic fatty acids, and it contains vitamin E. Oil sold for skin and hair is usually pressed from raw kernels. Oil sold for cooking is pressed from roasted kernels and smells nutty.

What does it feel like?

Argan sits in the middle of the range. It is lighter than castor or avocado oil and a little richer than jojoba. Most people find it leaves hair and skin feeling soft.

How to use argan oil on hair

Warm a few drops between your palms and smooth them through the mid-lengths and ends. You can do this on damp hair before drying or on dry ends to finish. Keep it away from the roots if your hair gets oily quickly.

How to use argan oil on skin

Press a few drops onto damp skin after washing or bathing. A little water on the skin helps the oil spread, so you use less.

Argan oil vs jojoba oil

Argan is a true oil with a slightly richer feel. Jojoba is a liquid plant wax with a lighter, silkier feel. Neither is better. They simply feel different, which is why the two work well together.

On its own or in a blend?

Pure argan oil suits you if you want that one oil and nothing else. A natural oil blend suits you if you want one bottle for body, hair and face, with more than one texture in it.

SEVN Signature Nourishing Oil combines argan with six other plant oils. See every oil in The Blend, or try the 20 ml sample for £5.