CAS number 223747-87-3
INCI name Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, commonly known as Argan Oil or the ‘liquid gold of Morocco,’ is a prized ingredient in personal care. Renowned for its exceptional emollient properties, it deeply nourishes and conditions both skin and hair, promoting overall health and vitality. Additionally, it is believed to possess anti-aging benefits. In its pure form, Argan Oil is a clear yellow liquid, widely used in cosmetics and personal care formulations.
Origin
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil is extracted from the kernels of the argan fruit, which is native to Morocco. The production process is time-consuming, as the argan tree grows slowly, and its seeds are notoriously difficult to crack. The kernels, which contain approximately 50% oil, are carefully pressed to obtain the precious argan oil.
Purpose
Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil) is a powerful emollient that deeply hydrates and softens the skin by forming a protective barrier to lock in moisture. It also serves as an excellent hair conditioner, nourishing and strengthening strands while reducing frizz, enhancing shine, and protecting against heat and environmental damage.
| Feature | Description |
| Name | Argan oil |
| Type | Emollient, moisturizer, antioxidant, and conditioning agent |
| Source | Extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree (Argania spinosa), native to Morocco |
| PH | 0.8 and 2.5 |
| Color | Pale yellow to golden |
| Odor | Mild, nutty aroma |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Concentration | 1–10% |
| Physical state | Viscous oil |
| Boiling point | 3-7°C |
Rich in Essential Fatty Acids
Argan oil is abundant in oleic (omega-9) and linoleic (omega-6) acids, which deeply nourish and strengthen the skin barrier. These fatty acids help retain moisture, prevent transepidermal water loss, and also support the skin’s natural repair process.
High Vitamin E Content
Packed with tocopherols, this acts as a potent antioxidant that protects the skin and hair from oxidative stress, environmental pollutants, and UV damage. Vitamin E also enhances the oil’s ability to hydrate and also improve skin texture.
Non-Comedogenic & Lightweight
Unlike heavier oils, this has a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Its non-comedogenic nature makes it ideal for all skin types, including acne-prone and oily skin, as it won’t clog pores.
Restores Skin Elasticity
Argan oil enhances collagen production and improves skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. It promotes a firmer, thus more youthful complexion by stimulating cell regeneration.
Protects Against UV Damage
Naturally containing polyphenols and ferulic acid, Argan oil has photoprotective properties that help shield the skin and hair from UV radiation and also sun damage. Regular use can reduce hyperpigmentation and sun-induced aging.
Deep Hair Conditioning & Scalp Health
Argan oil nourishes the scalp, strengthens hair strands, prevents split ends, and tames frizz. Its ability to penetrate deeply into the hair shaft restores shine, enhances softness, and additionally reduces breakage. It is particularly beneficial for dry, brittle, or chemically treated hair.
Anti-Inflammatory & Healing Properties
Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, this soothes irritated skin, calms redness, and accelerates wound healing. It is commonly used to relieve symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, thus making it a versatile treatment for sensitive skin conditions.
Sustainably Sourced & Rare
Extracted from the kernels of the Argan tree, which grows exclusively in Morocco, this is considered one of the rarest and most valuable natural oils. Harvesting and production follow traditional, labor-intensive methods, ensuring purity and also sustainability.
Balances Sebum Production
Argan oil helps regulate oil production by hydrating dry skin while preventing excessive sebum buildup in oily skin. This dual-action property makes it beneficial for maintaining a balanced complexion without causing excess shine or dryness.
Applications of Argan Oil
Skincare
Argan oil is widely used in facial moisturizers, serums, and body lotions due to its hydrating and anti-aging properties. It helps improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and protect against environmental stressors. It is also used in facial oils to balance sebum production, also making it suitable for both dry and oily skin types.
Hair Care
Argan oil is a key ingredient in shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, and styling products. It nourishes the scalp, strengthens hair strands, enhances shine, reduces frizz, and prevents split ends. It is also used as a heat protectant before styling and to restore moisture to chemically treated or dry hair.
Lip Care
Due to its intense hydration properties, this is incorporated into lip balms and lip treatments to prevent dryness, cracking, and chapping, leaving lips soft and also smooth.
Nail & Cuticle Care
Argan oil is used in nail and cuticle treatments to strengthen brittle nails, prevent breakage, and hydrate dry cuticles. It is often found in nail oils and cuticle creams.
Massage & Body Oils
As a lightweight, deeply nourishing oil, Argan oil is often blended into massage oils for its skin-softening and soothing properties. It helps relieve dry patches, improve circulation, and also provide long-lasting moisture.
Anti-Aging & Repair Creams
Argan oil is a popular ingredient in anti-aging formulations, helping to reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture, and boost cell regeneration. It is commonly found in night creams, under-eye treatments, and also scar-reducing products.
Acne & Sensitive Skin Treatments
Due to its non-comedogenic and anti-inflammatory properties, Argan oil is included in skincare products formulated for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It helps soothe irritation, reduce redness, and thus regulate sebum production.
Makeup & Cosmetic Formulations
Argan oil is often added to foundation, BB creams, and lipsticks to provide hydration, a smooth application, and a natural glow. It is also used in makeup removers to gently cleanse while moisturizing the skin.
Sun Protection & After-Sun Care
With its natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Argan oil is found in sunscreens and after-sun lotions to protect against UV damage and soothe sunburned skin.
Stretch Mark & Scar Treatment
Argan oil is used in creams and oils formulated to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars by improving skin elasticity and promoting healing.
Baby Skincare
Due to its gentle nature, Argan oil is included in baby lotions, oils, and diaper creams to provide hydration and protect delicate skin from dryness and irritation.
