Argan oil has been a trusted care oil in Berber culture in Morocco for centuries. In modern skincare, it has emerged as one of the most versatile plant oils there is — light in texture, widely tolerated, and suitable for face, hair, body, and nails. In this article, you’ll find 12 practical uses for argan oil, with tips for each one.
Nighttime facial care
Argan oil absorbs quickly and leaves no sticky residue. After cleansing, apply one to two drops to slightly damp skin — preferably after rose water as an intermediate step. The oil supports the skin barrier while you sleep. Start with one drop; that’s more than enough for the whole face.
Daily base oil under SPF
During the day, argan oil works excellently as a lightweight base oil for SPF. It is light enough not to pill under sun protection, gives the skin a smooth feel, and is well tolerated by all skin types. Apply after rose water, wait a minute, then SPF.
Makeup remover
A few drops of argan oil on a cotton pad also dissolve waterproof makeup without you having to rub. Gently massage in circular motions, wipe away, then cleanse as usual. Less harsh on the skin than many conventional cleansing wipes and lotions.
DIY exfoliant for face and body
Mix a teaspoon of brown sugar with a few drops of argan oil in your palm. Gently massage over the face or dry areas such as elbows and heels in circular motions for two to three minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. Use no more than once or twice a week.
Care for razor burn and razor bumps
After shaving, skin can feel red and irritated. One to two drops of argan oil on the shaved area gives a soothing, calming feel. Suitable for both the face after beard shaving and the legs.
Body care
For the body, argan oil works best when applied to still-damp skin immediately after showering. Spread quickly over the skin before it is completely dry — this means you need less oil and it absorbs better. Especially suitable for dry areas such as shins, elbows, and knees.
Leave-in hair care
One to two drops of argan oil through damp hair lengths after washing adds shine, softness, and less frizz. Distribute through the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the scalp. Depending on hair thickness and length, start with one drop and build up. You can read more tips in our blog about argan oil for hair.
Deep overnight hair treatment
For a more intensive hair treatment, apply four to eight drops to the hair shaft and ends, wrap your hair in a towel or shower cap, and leave it in overnight. Wash out thoroughly the next morning. Once a week for dry or damaged hair.
Lip conditioner
Argan oil is excellent care for dry, chapped lips. Dab a small amount onto the lips before bed. It provides a protective layer, hydrates, and leaves the lips feeling smoother. A handy alternative to lip balms with a long ingredient list.
Nail and cuticle care
A drop of argan oil massaged into the cuticles keeps them supple and hydrated. Preferably do this in the evening, as a small bedtime routine. Well-nourished cuticles are less likely to split. Also suitable for massaging in before applying nail polish.
Foot treatment
Apply two to three drops to dry feet, paying extra attention to the heels, then put on socks. Leave to absorb for at least twenty minutes — or overnight. The oil penetrates more deeply thanks to the warmth of the socks. A simple weekly treatment for softer feet.
Care for stretch marks
Argan oil is traditionally applied to skin that is or has been stretched, such as the stomach, hips, or thighs. Gently massaging two to three drops into the skin gives a smoother, more nourished feel. This is cosmetic care — not a treatment for stretch marks themselves.
Curious which of these uses best suits your skin? Check out our oil guide or read more about argan oil for skin and face.
Also see our argan oil collection and our collection of natural oils.
Frequently asked questions about argan oil
What are the main benefits of argan oil?
Argan oil contains vitamin E, oleic acid, and linoleic acid — fatty acids that are similar to the skin’s lipids. It absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy feeling, and is tolerated by almost all skin types. On the skin, it can be used as a daily base oil, evening care, and makeup remover. On hair, as a leave-in and overnight treatment. On nails and lips, as a nourishing evening step.
How many drops of argan oil should you use each time?
For the face, one to two drops is more than enough. For the body, two to four drops, applied to damp skin after showering. For hair, one to two drops through the lengths. For nails and lips, a fraction of a drop. Always start with less than you think you need — you can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
Can you use argan oil on your whole body?
Yes. Argan oil is suitable for face, hair, body, nails, and lips. On the body, it works best on damp skin immediately after showering. It is light enough to spread quickly without leaving a greasy film. For more intensive body care, avocado oil is a richer choice.
Is argan oil also good for hair?
Yes. Argan oil is one of the most widely used hair oils, also known as Moroccan hair oil. It is used as a leave-in for shine and softness, as a pre-wash treatment, and as a deep conditioner. Use it on the lengths and ends; avoid the scalp if your hair gets greasy quickly. Read more in our blog about argan oil for hair.
How do you store argan oil?
Store argan oil in a cool, dark place — not in direct sunlight or in the bathroom above the shower, where it is warm and humid. Well-stored argan oil in a dark glass bottle keeps for one to two years after opening. Watch for a sour or rancid smell as a sign that the oil is no longer at its best.
